Being Friendly to Minehead Station... The Chairman of the Friends of Minehead Station writes: The Friends of Minehead Station (FoMS) formed in 1995 with the aim of looking after the fabric of historic Minehead Station. The Station is quite a big complex, with several buildings, some dating from the opening of the line in 1874; probably the longest platforms on any preserved railway; and several areas of non-operational land. All in addition to the tracks and other operational areas such as the locomotive shed. The FoMS mostly look after the "public" areas, and keep the place looking smart and colourful. With some 100,000 passengers each year, along with thousands who come onto the Station just to enjoy the atmosphere, there is much work to do each day. The FoMS is an entirely volunteer organisation who work with the West Somerset Railway plc for the purpose of preserving and restoring the station and buildings in and around Minehead Station area. Membership Membership of FoMS brings a range of excellent benefits: »  Newsletters bringing with them news of projects to be done; a progress report on tasks undertaken; features about the Station including information of events etc. on the Railway of interest to Members. »  Quarterly Social Evenings and an Annual Dinner. »  The opportunity to take part in the projects and, above all, the satisfaction of keeping the headquarters of the Railway worthy of our motto "Better by Miles" Remember, we are in a very prominent position on the Seafront and customers will form their opinion of the Railway on what they see here. "First Impressions" are the lasting impressions. There are no second class members of our organisation. Every member is assured of a warm welcome, whether or not they are able to help directly on the railway. By simply joining FoMS and renewing your subscription each year, you will be directly helping to ensure the continued maintenance and upkeep of the Station. When you join FoMS the choice is entirely yours - you can simply keep in touch with events by reading the Newsletter, visiting the station from time to time and joining in the social events, or you can become actively involved with FoMS. activities. Volunteers are a very vital part of the Railway and we will be delighted to meet you if you would like to assist us with our maintenance programme. If you would like to become a member of FoMS - and we sincerely hope you will - simply request and complete the application form and send it back to the address shown. You will be welcomed into a fast increasing group of people with whom you will share a mutual interest. You can be assured that your membership will be highly valued!

Your first stop for magazine back numbers! Complete year sets or individual magazines available. Whether buying or donating, visit us at Minehead Station or call us on 01643 704996. All profits help the work of the Friends of Minehead Station

Contact the FoMS Chairman on 01643 704996