A new programme of exciting events at a new venue are now planned for the Taunton Area Group, under the auspices of the refreshed Board of Trustees. Meetings will still be held on the first Monday evening of the month (2nd Monday in May), 7pm for 7.30pm but now at the Wyvern Club, Mountfields Road, Taunton TA1 3BJ. This is a great venue with a bar and offering food from a snack to a full meal.

A full programme of meetings until June will be announced in the next few days, including a session by a very well-known railway photographer, and, it is hoped, a presentation on WSR infrastructure.

The first evening, on Monday 7 March, will be a presentation by home-grown WSR photographic expert Don Bishop of Steam Recreations including, no doubt many shots taken on photographic steam charters and our very own WSR.

A representative of the new WSRA Trustees will also be present to answer questions on the work now started to get the WSRA back on track. If you have not been to a WSRA Taunton Area Group meeting for a while, or at all, do come along on Monday 7 March if you possibly can, to show support to your new Board of Trustees and find out where YOUR WSRA is going in future.

Robin White, (interim) WSRA Taunton Area Group Organiser 29 February 2016

29 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Association

The popular webcam at Bishops Lydeard Station has been rendered offline due to the removal of equipment including the PC which supports the webcam software. Although measures are being taken to resolve the problem, the webcam is likely to remain offline for some time including during the forthcoming Spring Steam Gala. We apologise to our many regular webcam viewers.

29 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Association

Andy Forster, WSR's Chief Mechanical Engineer provides an update:

I regret to report that it has not been possible to arrange for a LMS Stanier class 5 4-6-0 to attend the WSR S&D gala despite the best efforts of both the WSR and various locomotive owners to make this happen. Options for other locomotives have been thoroughly explored, especially those suggested by various well-wishers on the National Preservation web site and others, but the for various reasons locomotives are hard to come by. I am therefore especially pleased that yet again the Great Central Railway has come to our assistance and offered LMS 8F BR number 48624, which we have accepted, our thanks to both the GCR and the locomotive's owners for this generous offer at short notice. Transport will be arranged for it to arrive in time to act as a direct replacement for 45379 in the gala brochure locomotive diagrams. No 48624 has recently been repainted into BR black livery, further details for the locomotive can be found on the GCR web site.

This will only be the second time that an 8F has run on the WSR and it is over 20 years since 48773 spent a summer based at Minehead. Thanks go to the Great Central Railway and the owners of 48624 for making the loco available for the Gala.

29 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

The WSR Plc have provided the following statement:

The West Somerset Railway PLC board enthusiastically welcomes the results of the WSRA EGM held on 27th February 2016, and the consequent appointment of new trustees to a board that we can work with. We consider this to be a definitive result which was achieved by Association members proposing and voting overwhelmingly for the resolution when given the opportunity. It is a very positive first step for the future, demonstrating acceptance of the recommendations of the Coombes Review, the need to restore good governance to the Association, and the rebuilding of relationships not only with the PLC, but the whole West Somerset railway family. We now expect the ex-trustees to allow a smooth transition to the new board.

The WSR Plc had been giving full support to WSRA Chairman Frank Courtney in his attempts to resolve the challenges faced by the WSRA and will continue this with the new Trustees as they are able to exercise control of the Association and begin the difficult path of recovery. The PLC fully supports the aims of the Association and its members to be a supporting body within the WSR family and will continue to work to this end which requires the restoration and demonstration of good governance.

PLC chairman John Irven said:

I have already warmly recognised to Frank Courtney and the new board their courage and fortitude in achieving this result, and have confirmed every effort will continue to be made by myself and the PLC directors to help move things forward. The PLC postponed its next stakeholder meeting for shareholders, employees, volunteers and partners, many of whom are WSRA members, to the 9th April 2016 to allow them to attend the EGM on Saturday. I am pleased that Frank and the new team have accepted my invitation to participate in this meeting

28 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

After its trip from Williton to Washford on 27 February 2016, Andrew Barclay 0-4-0ST no 1219 was put straight to work shunting the yard. The locomotive was seen shunting the LSWR Road Van and other wagons and later shunted Peckett 0-4-0ST Kilmersdon. The Peckett is considered by many to be a small engine, but it towered over the Barclay. Owner Ryan Pope commented:

1219 will be running at Washford on all six days of the Gala. We had a very good run up to Washford. The engine performed very well and we were pleased that the loco finally moved under its own power once again. Again we would like to say thank you to everyone who has helped us to restore this little loco.

28 February 2016
Details kindly provided by local correspondents

The Quantock Belle catering team will be offering hot food - all day breakfasts - during the 2016 Spring Steam Gala weekends The Belle will be attached to the 9.50am from Bishops Lydeard on 5 and 6 March for two round trips; then on Saturday 12 March, the Belle will be attached to the 10.45am from Bishops Lydeard for two round trips (and will sell hot food - such as bacon baps - in the platform before departure, as shunting arrangements allow); and finally, on Sunday 13 March things revert to the 9.30am departure from Bishops Lydeard.

The above service had been in some doubt because the previous WSRA Trustees had not signed an operating agreement to enable the use of the Quantock Belle and other WSRA controlled vehicles during the Gala. The new Board of Trustees has now confirmed that these vehicles can operate.

27 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Association

On 27 February 2016, Andrew Barclay 0-4-0ST no 1219, built in 1910 and recently restored to working order by the apprentices at West Somerset Restoration at Williton, took a trip along the WSR main line to Washford. Quite a change of routine for the diminutive engine. No 1219 spent its entire working life at Stewarts & Lloyds Ltd's Clydesdale Steel & Tube Works at Mossend and later at Andrew Barclay as works shunter until 1970.

27 February 2016
Details kindly provided by local correspondents

Following the General Meeting on 27 February 2016 and the removal from office of six Trustees, we understand a new Trustee Board has been formed. Existing Trustees Frank Courtney and Michael Rowe remain in post. The new co-options are Nigel Adams, Barrie Childs, Rodney Greenway, Martyn Snell, Simon Stretton and Roger Thompson, all of whom have given an undertaking to resign if necessary after the Coombes search process is concluded. The new Company Secretary is Paul Whitehouse.

27 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Assocation

The General Meeting of the West Somerset Railway Association was held as planned at Crowcombe Village Hall on 27 February 2016 despite claims by six of the eight Trustees that it had been cancelled. The General Meeting was chaired by Trustee Frank Courtney.

There was just a single Resolution.

The Membership votes were 1674 in favour of the Resolution and 67 against.

The Minutes of the General Meeting are available here.

The Reform Group have commented on the result.

Sadly it looks like the six Trustees mentioned in the Resolution (who are the same six who claim the General Meeting was invalid) are likely to ignore the result. Some say that probably means the WSRA funds going to legal fees rather than heritage projects.

27 February 2016
Details kindly provided by local correspondent

The online ticketing facility for the first weekend of the 2016 Spring Steam Gala will close over the weekend 27 and 28 February 2016. However telephone bookings can still be made via 01643 704996 until midday on 4 March 2016 with tickets collected only at Bishops Lydeard or Minehead (not at any intermediate stations).

Online bookings for the other Gala days - 9 March to 13 March - will be remain open for another week.

26 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

Kate Beard, Retail Manager at WSRA Promotions, writes:

Running out of space at home? As the new season approaches, the Station Shop at Bishops Lydeard is looking for donations of your surplus railway and road transport books. We would also be grateful to receive any official publications such as working timetables, handbills, tickets or small collections of model railway equipment.

26 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Assocation

Peter Treharne has had some more volunteers come forward to assist with the running of the Blue Anchor Museum and it will be open on all six days of the Spring Steam Gala. The Museum houses interesting displays of smaller artefacts relating to the GWR and the Western Region of British Railways. Admission is by donation and the Museum is part of the work of the West Somerset Steam Railway Trust.

25 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

The Secretary of the Partnership Development Group has kindly provided the draft minutes of the meeting ot the Group held on 18 February 2016. The draft minutes are available as a downloadable PDF document.

Also available is a copy of the presentation by WSRA Review Chairman Robin Coombes to the Partnership Development Group at the meeting on 18 February 2016.

The next meeting of the Partnership Development Group will be held on 31 March 2016.

25 February 2016
Details kindly provided by Partnership Development Group Secretariat

Andy Forster, WSR's Chief Mechanical Engineer, has provided an update:

Here is the latest news regarding the movement of SDJR 2-8-0 no 53809 from Butterley to Bishops Lydeard. At present vehicles moving out by road from Butterley need to exit via a temporary entrance over unmade ground. Plans were in place for both 53809 and 70013 Oliver Cromwell to move out yesterday. It was possible for the tender of 53809 to leave but the unit moving 70013 became bogged down despite the combined pulling power of 3 heavy tractor units. Overnight work was done to compact the ground and the heavy frost has helped, 70013 successfully moving over the soft area at 9am this morning. It will now be possible to bring onto site the unit to load 53809 which should be on the WSR later this evening provided no further problems are encountered.

Meanwhile - difficulties of moving LMS 4-6-0 no 44871 via rail have cast serious doubt over its availability to attend the gala, I am working hard to source a suitable replacement locomotive that complies with the S&D theme

24 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

We wish to remind Members of the West Somerset Railway Association that the General Meeting at Crowcombe Village Hall from 11am on 27 February 2016 goes ahead as scheduled, despite claims to the contrary by some. The required number of 'general meeting calling' forms from Members were received on 28 January 2016 by two WSRA Trustees and two members of the WSRA staff; after checking (two forms were rejected) and as the WSRA's Articles require, the WSRA Chairman gave proper notice of the General Meeting to all Members.

For those making their way by bus, the stop you need is the "Crowcombe/Stogumber turn" which is only 150 yards or so from Crowcombe Village Hall. Both the 18 and 28 services provide a half-hourly service from central Taunton to Minehead and vice versa, operating via Bishops Lydeard, Williton, Watchet, Washford and Dunster. To get you to the Meeting in plenty of time, Buses of Somerset Service 28 leaves Taunton Bus Station at 8.35am, 9.05am and 9.35am and Webberbus Service 18 leaves Taunton Bus Station at 9.03am and 9.33am. For full bus information, use the links we have provided.

We hope to post the result of the voting on the single Resolution as soon as possible.

23 February 2016
Details from www.wsr.org.uk

The Friends of Crowcombe Heathfield Station are looking forward to welcoming visitors during the 2016 Spring Steam Gala.

Commemorating the 50th anniversary of the closure of the Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway on March 5th & 6th + 10th - 13th 2016. This promises to be a fantastic gala and we hope you will pay the station a visit when it will take on the guise of Shepton Mallet. A warm welcome is assured with a real coal fire in the waiting room. Pasties, sausage rolls, soup, hot and cold drinks and snacks including delicious cakes await you. The station is a great place to take photographs [and buy tickets for the trains operating an intensive timetable to the other 9 stations on the line]. New for 2016 is a much improved photographers' vantage point as below.

22 February 2016
Details gleaned from Friends of Crowcombe Heathfield Station

Geoff Pateman has written on behalf of the WSR Plc Board. Here are the opening and closing remarks:

The WSR Plc welcomes the statement issued by the Partnership Development Group (PDG) confirming the position resolved unanimously at its meeting on 17th February on behalf of the whole of the WSR, including the representative of the WSRA, Ian Aldridge. Read the full PDG statement here.

We are concerned about the effect that these actions are continuing to have both on those involved in the operation of the railway and on the reputation of the whole WSR. We believe the Plc has a responsibility to protect this by taking appropriate action as necessary. The Board have a meeting in the afternoon of 27th February when we intend to review our position after the outcome of the EGM is known, together with the response of the 6 trustees.

Read the full Plc document here.

20 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

The West Somerset Railway Partnership Development Group (PDG) has issued a Statement with regard to the Coombes Report. In the Statement, the PDG Chairman Steve Williams reports:

The discussion at PDG was focused at a strategic level. Following consideration of Robin Coombes presentation and the issues raised, Partnership Development Group members agreed unanimously that it would be helpful to the reputation and sustainability of the West Somerset Railway as a whole as well as to the Association itself if PDG were to make [a] statement. This statement was agreed unanimously by all the organisations/representatives including the West Somerset Railway Association Trustees representative, Ian Aldridge.

20 February 2016
Details kindly provided by the Partnership Development Group

Andrew Young, WSR's Head of Infrastructure Engineering writes:

We are looking for help to build a new footpath across a field from Doniford Halt towards Doniford Farm (PTS is not required). Working days are not yet determined but it is likely we shall make a start in April. We need muscle for moving materials, plant operators (with suitable tickets!) and folk to help organise the work. If you are able to help with this project please contact me.

20 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

We advise Members of the West Somerset Railway Association to ignore the very recent postings on the official WSRA website concerning the General Meeting at Crowcombe Village Hall on 27 February 2016. The two postings - "General Meeting Postponed" and "Further Information" - contain information based on decisions made during an improperly-called Trustee Board meeting held on 15 February 2016.

As required by the Association's Articles, notice of Trustee Board meetings must be given to all Trustees. As this requirement was not carried out, the meeting of (some of) the Trustees on 15 February 2016, cannot be valid. Therefore, it follows that decisions made at that meeting are also not valid. Thus the 27 February General Meeting still goes ahead and Frank Courtney remains as Chairman. These decisions are invalid and thus information contained in the two postings also invalid. We should add that Frank Courtney was not present at the meeting due to business reasons. Trustee Michael Rowe was also not present having not been formally notified or invited

We try hard to be neutral on political and procedural issues and are happy to give all sides the chance to put their point of view so a couple of days ago we asked Trustee Ian Aldridge to explain why the 15 February meeting was called despite not following the requirements of the Articles. At the time of posting this news item no explanation has been forthcoming.

WSRA Members should note the calling of the General Meeting at Crowcombe Village Hall on 27 February 2016 remains perfectly valid and it will start at 11am as previously announced, and we encourage Members to attend (or to return their proxy voting forms within the next two or three days). Members also please note that Frank Courtney remains Chairman of your Association.

20 February 2016
Details from www.wsr.org.uk

Andrew Young, WSR's Head of Infrastructure Engineering writes:

In March we are looking to run tidy trains over a number of days including the weekend of 19th and 20th March. If you would like to take part loading the trains (PTS required) please let me have your name, phone number, email address and the days you are able to help. We also need help organising and running the days or we shall not be able to run it at all; all safety paperwork/assessments will be provided, but we need a person in charge to deliver the brief and coordinate the trains each day. Please contact me if you are interested in either participating or leading. Contact Andrew by email at andrew.young@wsrail.net

19 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

Warship Class diesel hydraulic locomotive no D832 Onslaught - currently based at Williton - is due to return to the East Lancs Railway later in 2016. Now comes news of some extra mileage for the Class 42 on the Minehead Branch before it leaves Somerset.

On 30 April 2016, D832 will depart Bishops Lydeard at 11.45am and will arrive at Minehead at 1pm. At 1.20pm it will do a round trip to Williton getting back to Minehead at 2.56pm and will finally depart from Minehead at 5.15pm, arriving back at Bishops Lydeard at 6.27pm. Standard fares and discounts will apply and discounted day rover tickets can be purchased online via www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk.

Onslaught was built in 1961 and withdrawn in 1972 and is one of two surviving members of the class.

During the day the current custodians of the Warship, the Diesel and Electric Preservation Group will have its Heritage Centre and Depot at Williton open to the public and will be happy to welcome visitors (admission by donation).

18 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

The WSR's Chief Mechanical Engineer, Andy Forster, reports:

We have been advised that the ORR have today suspended the operating licence of West Coast Railway Company who were due to move Ian Riley's Black Five number 44871 to our S&D gala. We will be investigating any satisfactory alternative means to enable this move to proceed, however this may not be possible. Whatever the outcome we will endeavour to try and source a replacement locomotive of a suitable type so that the Gala can be operated as planned.

17 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

The full colour 24 page Commemorative Brochure for the 2016 Spring Steam Gala has arrived from the printers. Pre-ordered copies should now be landing on the doormats. The Brochure includes a brief history of the Somerset & Dorset Railway; information about each WSR station and the S&D name it will become during the event; the working timetable for each of the Gala days (5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13 March 2016); details of the "Quantock Gold" Commemorative Ale; picture and details of the booked locomotives; and lots of other information. Order a copy online, or by ringing 01643 704996, or buy from the WSR stations.

17 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

LMS 4F 0-6-0 no 44422 made completed its journey by road from Crewe to Bishops Lydeard on 15 February 2016 to start a new life on the Minehead Branch. No 44422's first duties come during the forthcoming 2016 Spring Steam Gala which will recall the closure of the celebrated Somerset & Dorset Railway in March 1966. The 4F is a very appropriate engine having worked over the S&D all those years ago. No 44422 will be based on the West Somerset Railway for the next 25years.

17 February 2016
Details kindly provided by local correspondent

The Shop and Whistle Stop Cafe at Bishops Lydeard Station will be open during February 2016.

Contact 01823 432125 or shop@wsra.org.uk for more details.

16 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Assocation

For passengers and visitors to Washford Station on the West Somerset Railway on Saturday 5 March 2016 and Saturday 12 March 2016, there will be the additional spectacle of a series of special events taking place to commemorate the last passenger trains to run on the Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway. Working with local outdoor arts company Rag and Bone, and artist Kate McStraw, the performances will give people a chance to experience the wonderful sights and sounds of this much missed railway line as well as share their own memories of the S&D. Steam, engines, band, performance and song will all combine to recreate some of the dramatic events of that last day in 1966. There will be family activities and a chance to join in with classic train songs from the Brass and Steam band.

In addition, it is planned that the Andrew Barclay Restoration Group will have newly-restored ex-Caledonia Works 0-4-0ST no 1219 in steam at Washford throughout the Gala. This will be the first opportunity for the public to see no 1219 working following restoration.

For updates and full details please refer to the Somerset & Dorset Railway Trust website.

15 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

John Simms, WSR Publicity Officer, has announced:

Following talks between West Somerset Railway CME Andy Forster and Ian Riley the WSR is pleased to confirm that LMS Black 5 4-6-0 no 44871 will be attending the Spring Steam Gala in place of the sadly unavailable no 45379. This will be 44871's first appearance on the route between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead. Thanks go to Ian Riley for making the locomotive available.

15 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

The curator of the Washford Museum of the Somerset and Dorset Railway Trust, Steph Gillett, has turned writer to commemorate the much loved Somerset & Dorset Railway. His book is being published by Amberley Publishing to coincide with the 50th anniversary of closure of the railway in March 1966.

In 'The Somerset & Dorset Railway Through Time' Steph tells the story of how Victorian railways from Glastonbury and Wimborne joined up in 1862. An extension to Bath in 1874 provided a through route from the north to the south coast, used by thousands of holiday makers until the line was axed by Dr Beeching. The book recounts the line's history and includes many previously unpublished photographs.

The Somerset & Dorset Railway Trust, of which Steph is honorary curator, has been given £58,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to mark the anniversary with a travelling exhibition and family friendly events. The Trust is also marking its 50th birthday, having been formed as the Somerset & Dorset Circle when the line closed.

The book will be launched at the Wells & Mendip Museum at 2pm on Saturday 20 February and the author will be available to sign copies until 4pm. The museum in Wells will be hosting the Trust's exhibition from 10 March to 28 April. Steph will be available for book signings and author talks throughout the year.

The new book will also be on sale at the Washford Museum and West Somerset Railway sales outlets during the WSR's special event to mark the 50th anniversary of the closure of the SDJR which will take place on 5-6 March 2016 and between 10 and 13 March 2016.

15 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

The latest edition of the Trust's newsletter is now available on the Trust website. This includes items discussed by the Trustees at their meeting on 10 February, including adoption of the report and accounts for 2014-15, a policy on reserves and revised membership rules. Under the new membership rules, you can now join the Trust for a minimum donation of £1 a month. This is designed in particular to encourage those who volunteer regularly in support of the Trust to become members, and have a role in shaping the future of the Trust.

15 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Steam Railway Trust

The Annual General Meeting of the West Somerset Steam Railway Trust will take place on Saturday 23 April 2016, starting at 2pm, at the Gauge Museum, Bishops Lydeard Station. The formal notice and papers, including the Trust's annual report and accounts, will be circulated in March and also posted on the Trust website.

The Trustees look forward to seeing as many members at the meeting as possible, to hear about the work of the Trust over the past year and our plans for the future. If you want to join the Trust to be able to vote at the meeting, the forms are on the membership page of the Trust website.

14 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Steam Railway Trust

Andy Forster, the WSR's Chief Mechanical Engineer writes:

Unfortunately for a number of logistical reasons Black 5 number 45379 will not be available to attend the S&D Spring Steam Gala from the Mid Hants Railway as had previously been hoped. Our thanks go to the Mid Hants for their best efforts in trying to make this visit possible.

So that we can still maintain the published locomotive diagrams without having to resort to a GWR home locomotive we are arranging for a suitable replacement to attend. We should be able to confirm the number of the locomotive to our customers during next week once details have been finalised.

All is going well for the remainder of the fleet to attend the gala, 53808 is in the final stages of painting, 44422 is due to move from LNWR Heritage Crewe early next week and 53809 is close to being ready to move from Butterley. 80072, 34058, 34070 and 92214 all have their transport booked to be on the railway in good time."

13 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

There is a unique chance to drive and fire two of the guest steam locomotives which are attending the WSR Spring Steam Gala.

On Monday 7 March 2016 there are places available on a train doing two round trips between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead, headed by SDJR 7F 2-8-0 no 53809. Four participants will be involved. In the morning one will drive from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead whilst another fires the engine and in the afternoon the other two course members will have their chance. When not on the footplate the participants will travel with the guard to have a closer look at that side of railway work. £695 per person, bookable in advance via 01643 700398.

On Tuesday 8 March 2016 the start point is Minehead for two round trips to Bishops Lydeard and this time the locomotive is BR 9F 2-10-0 no 92214. £765 per person bookable in advance via 01643 700398.

More information from the official WSR website.

12 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

The West Somerset Railway is pleased to announce that the 2016 West Somerset Classic Car Run is to take place on Sunday 19 June 2016, Father's Day.

The run is open to pre-1980 classics, and is strictly limited to 100 participants on a first-come basis. The run will start from Bishops Lydeard Railway Station (near Taunton) and will take in a pre-arranged 35 mile route through some little-known but delightful West Somerset scenery, wooded valleys, along the coast and ending at the seaside resort at Minehead where free parking for the day has been arranged, adjacent to Minehead Station.

Paul Conibeare, West Somerset Railway's General Manager said:

The inaugural car run in 2015 was a great success, and we hope now to make this an annual event. It is perfect for Father's Day. This gives an opportunity for classic car owners to explore the lesser-known by-ways of West Somerset and for steam trains and classic cars to be seen together.

Download the Information Sheet and the Entry Form or contact the Run Organiser, Robin White at robin215white@btinternet.com

11 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

In a brief statement, the West Somerset Railway Association announced:

The WSRA company secretary, Ms Susan Kaufman, has resigned her post for personal reasons. The Trustees thank her for all her efforts on behalf of the Association and wish her well for the future. The Trustees will review the post in due course.

10 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Association

Geoff Pateman, WSR Plc Company Secretary, writes:

Following the announcement that the WSRA General Meeting has been called for 27 February at 11.00 a.m. at Crowcombe Village Hall the Plc has decided to reschedule its Stakeholder meeting, originally planned to take place on the same day at Minehead. This has been done in order to allow the greatest opportunity for our stakeholders who are also WSRA members to attend both events.

We are pleased to announce that the new date for our Stakeholder meeting is Saturday, 9 April from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Hobby Horse Hotel in Minehead. This new date will allow those attending the meeting to travel on the railway both to and from the event.

Geoff Pateman
Company Secretary
For and on behalf of the Board of the West Somerset Railway Plc

10 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

Claire Sheppy of the Heritage Carriages Project writes:

In recognition of the the 50th Anniversary of the closure of the Somerset and Dorset Railway in 1966, the modelling magazine 'British Railway Modelling' will be carrying several S & D slanted articles in the March issue, now on sale. Included in the magazine will be articles on the models of both Bath Green Park and Burnham on Sea. Both layouts will be available to see at Bishops Lydeard Station during the Spring Steam Gala.

9 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Steam Railway Trust

The Diesel & Electric Preservation Group have announced details of the Diesel Locomotive Running Dates for 2016.

The Group also report:

We are very pleased to report that it is likely Hymek no D7017 will be visiting the St Philips Marsh Open Day, in Bristol on Bank Holiday Monday 2 May 2016. Great Western Railway are running the day in aid of charity which will showcase a large variety of traction past and present as well as providing an insight into this important depot.

and they also have this to say about Warship no D832:

In other news, following on from our December press release, it has now been confirmed that D832 will be returning to its home on the East Lancs Railway after the June Diesel Gala. We will be sad to see the loco leave but wish it and the Bury Hydraulic Group all the best. There is an opportunity still to ride on the loco in 2016 at WSR - on Saturday 30th April where it will be working the Green Diesel Diagram and it will make its final trips during the weekend of the 10, 11, 12 June 2016 at the Mixed Traction Weekend.

7 February 2016
Details kindly provided by Diesel & Electric Preservation Group

Ryan and Liam Pope report:

We are pleased to say that Andrew Barclay 0-4-0ST no 1219 passed its final steam test on Friday 5 February 2016. Hopefully, the loco will be in steam on both weekends of the Spring Steam Gala. We would like to say thank you to everyone who has supported us throughout the restoration of 1219. The next loco to restore is Hudswell Clarke 0-6-0T no 1857.

7 February 2016
Details kindly provided by the owners of Andrew Barclay no 1219

At the Friends of Minehead Station Annual General Meeting on 6 February 2016, Jeff Cousins presented his last report on the Readers Halt input for 2015, another record year. He and his wife Wendy are standing down after seven years of managing the busy and successful Readers Halt at Minehead Station. Martyn Snell, the Chairman of the Friends of Minehead Station adds:

The Friends are pleased that they will still work a day each week so we will not lose touch with them. A small group from Readers Halt will combine to take over their role during 2016 in the hope that someone will come forward and volunteer for this post.

7 February 2016
Details kindly provided by the Friends of Minehead Station

Papers for the General Meeting were received by members by post on 6 February 2016. The postal bundle included:

• A letter from the Chairman Frank Courtney giving notice of the General Meeting on 27 February 2016 at 11am at Crowcombe Village Hall.
• A Report by the Chairman Frank Courtney
• The Proxy Notice.
• A statement from the WSRA Reform Group who are representing the members who have called the General Meeting.
• A pre-paid addressed envelope for the return of the Proxy Form.

Any member unable to attend the General Meeting is strongly urged to complete and return the Proxy Form. See the General Meeting 27 February 2016 page for more about the issues, the processes and a map of the venue.

6 February 2016
Details gleaned from documents received from West Somerset Railway Association

The Quantock Belle catering team will be offering hot food - all day breakfasts - during the 2016 Spring Steam Gala weekends The Belle will be attached to the 9.50am from Bishops Lydeard on 5 and 6 March for two round trips; then on Saturday 12 March, the Belle will be attached to the 10.45am from Bishops Lydeard for two round trips (and will sell hot food - such as bacon baps - in the platform before departure, as shunting arrangements allow); and finally, on Sunday 13 March things revert to the 9.50am departure from Bishops Lydeard.

4 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Association

A limited opportunity on Monday 7 March 2016 and Tuesday 8 March 2016 for four people to enjoy the footplate of guest locomotives hired in especially for the Spring Steam Gala.

Four participants on each day will do two round trips over the whole line, driving the locomotive one way, firing it on the return and then doing another round trip in company with the guard to learn something of what this role involves. (One pair will be on the footplate in the morning, the other with the guard and after the lunch, included in the price, they will swap places). Participants must be fully fit and able to drive and fire the locomotive. This is not purely a ride through the countryside!

On Monday 7 March 2016 the planned locomotives are LMS Black 5 no 45379 (start from Minehead) and SDJR 2-8-0 no 53809 (start from Bishops Lydeard) whilst next day the planned locomotive is BR Class 9F no 92214 (start from Minehead). These engines are only on the Railway for the Gala so this will be a special opportunity to see what life was like for crews on the Somerset and Dorset.

Please visit the official website for full details of locos and pricing.

Updated: 5 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

The third month of 2016 will mark forty years since regular public train services returned to the Minehead Branch. To celebrate, and using the Quantock Belle coaching stock, there will be a special 40th Anniversary train on 27 March 2016 leaving Bishops Lydeard at 1pm and returning from Minehead at 5.15pm. Seventies wear is encouraged!

Starters - Prawn cocktail or Tomato soup
Main - Chicken in Honey Sauce or Gammon & Pineapple or Vegetable Lasagne
Dessert - Black Forest Gateaux or Arctic roll & peaches or Ice Cream Sundae
Coffee and mints
Afternoon Tea on return journey - small cakes, tea and coffee.

Menu choices must be made when booking and the inclusive price will be £55.00. Bookings will open via 01643 704996 or www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk on Monday 8 February 2016.

2 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

Mel Hillman, New Volunteer Co-ordinator, West Somerset Railway writes...

The West Somerset Railway will be holding its Annual Potential New Volunteer Open Day on Sunday 10 April 2016. This is an opportunity for anyone thinking of joining our team of enthusiastic volunteers to visit and find out more about the opportunities available. The day starts at 9.15am at Bishops Lydeard, followed a train trip to Williton to visit several departments and return to Bishops Lydeard by 1.45pm. Advance booking is essential. To book or to find out more information please email: volunteers@wsrail.net or telephone 01643 700384

1 February 2016
Details kindly provided by West Somerset Railway Plc

The WSRA Steam & Vintage Vehicle Rally Committee have issued a statement concerning the WSRA Review Report (the 'Coombes Report') and the recent call by over 400 WSRA members for a General Meeting to determine a resolution to remove six named Trustees from their position on the Association Board.

The statement is can be seen on the news page of the Rally website.

1 February 2016
Details kindly provided by WSRA Steam & Vintage Vehicle Rally Committee