An embankment on the West Somerset Railway that was damaged by flooding just before Christmas is now being repaired.

The location of the damage is at Combe Florey, north of Bishops Lydeard. A prolonged period of heavy rain caused flooding of the railway, with water and soil flowing onto both the railway and the A358 Minehead to Taunton road.

Although some of the ballast was washed away, luckily the track itself was not damaged. Engineers and technical staff from the railway visited the site just after Christmas to assess the damage, and plan how the embankment could be repaired. Suitable contractors were then engaged, and they are now on-site carrying out the work.

The adjacent landowner has now taken appropriate steps to minimise further runoff to the road and railway, and the West Somerset Railway is working closely with Somerset County Council to coordinate their response.

West Somerset Railway Director, Frank Courtney, said: “The Board of the Railway are very grateful indeed to our many friends and supporters across the country (including from the mainline railway) who have offered their help and support in this very difficult situation. Councillor Mike Rigby, Somerset County Council Executive Member for Transport and Digital, has been extremely helpful in facilitating contact with the Council.

“This work is going to cost a significant amount, but at the moment, our main priority is to ensure that the railway re-opens on time in early March. Work is underway in the background to assess the full cost of repairing the embankment and associated work. Various sources of funding are being addressed and we will give more information in due course.

“As always, we welcome support from our many supporters to keep our track in top condition. Contacting our support charity, the West Somerset Railway Association (see wsra.org.uk) will give all the information you need.”