The West Somerset Railway (WSR) is looking forward to once more running all the way from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead now that the busy Seaward Way level crossing in Minehead has reopened to rail traffic.

During March, April, and October, three return trips a day will run each day, increasing to four trains a day in May, June, and part of July, with five each way at the height of the summer.

The railway also hopes that ongoing discussions will be successful so that they can run regular scheduled services between Taunton and Bishops Lydeard, including a weekend shuttle service between them.

Special events planned for this year include:

• April 2nd and 3rd, Official Return to Minehead;
• May 5th to 8th, Spring Steam Gala;
• June 9th to 11th, 1960s Diesel Gala;
• September 10th and 11th, 1940s Week-end;
• September 29th to October 2nd, Autumn Steam Gala.

The line is also planning to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

On Wednesdays and Sundays during the school holidays Brunel family fun days will be held 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.

Company chairman Jon Jones-Pratt said “A long length of track between Dunster and the resort has been relaid and updated, and the season was set to be a busy one. The last year had been especially difficult because of Covid, but they had come through with flying colours.”

“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.”

Washford station was closed to passengers all last year but is now re-opening. Mr Jones-Pratt said he was pleased and relieved at the decision, and they were now setting up a team to operate it and welcome passengers once more. Anyone willing to help with the project should contact the line’s volunteer coordinator by email at [email protected]

The WSR is also looking to recruit volunteers for other tasks. Stations co-ordinator Alan Smithers said: “Aside from running trains, we have ten stations which require regular care and attention to keep them looking beautiful and welcoming to our 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 is a volunteer, there because they enjoy what they are doing, and that means the welcome is always a warm one.”