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A busy weekend ahead at Minehead Station
Two special events are taking place at Minehead Railway Station on 31 July and 1 August. The Saturday will mark the launch of a new book entitled "The Beeching Legacy". The book surveys those railway lines in Cornwall, Devon and the western parts of Somerset and Dorset that were marked down for closure in the 1963 report "The Reshaping of British Railways". Some of the lines such as the Exmouth branch did not in fact close whilst others such as the Seaton Junction to Seaton and of course the Minehead line have found new life as "heritage railways", bringing important business to their communities in a different role as tourism attractions. However the vast majority did close and the book illustrates the lines as they were at the time the Beeching axe was wielded and how they are today, be it in use still as railways or turned to other uses such as footpaths. With 160 pages with nearly 250 black and white illustrations, "The Beeching Legacy" costs £19.99 and the author, long time WSR supporter Philip Horton, will be at the Buffer Stop Shop at Minehead Station to sign copies and talk about the publication. Next day, Sunday 1 August, sees the annual Train and Collectors Fair taking place on the station platform. Organised by Chris Dyer there will be some 50 tables selling a wide range of trains, toys and collectables between 10.30am and 4.00pm Admission is £1.35 for adults and £1 for seniors and children; holders of West Somerset Railway tickets are admitted for free.
28 July 2010
Details from WSR Plc
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The results of the 2010 WSRA Spring Draw
The 2010 Spring Draw was held at the WSR Association Annual General Meeting on 10 July 2010 at Bishops Lydeard Village Hall. The ten winning tickets were drawn by Ray Waldron, West Somerset Restoration works manager. It was a great pleasure to find that winner of the first prize, Mr Faulconbridge, had attended the AGM and was present in the Hall. Spring Draw ticket sales totalled £5872.31 and all profit from the draw will be put towards the restoration of GWR 2-6-2T no 4561. The Association thanks everyone who bought draw tickets and the many who topped up with extra donations. Full results  . Plans are afoot for a Turn-of-the-Year Draw to help lift the winter gloom but meanwhile, still selling on the trains and also on offer at the Steam Fayre are tickets for the Summer Draw to be drawn on August Bank Holiday Monday at Bishops Lydeard station with proceeds once again to No 4561.
28 July 2010
Details from WSRA
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Roll up for the Late Summer Weekend
The Late Summer Weekend is a new venture for the West Somerset Railway giving a final summer holiday weekend for both enthusiasts and the general public alike. To give visitors plenty of opportunity to explore the line, its surroundings and the places served there will be departures from each end of the line on both the Saturday and the Sunday with alternating diesel and steam departures throughout the day. The target is to have nine locomotives in action as follows - from the steam fleet, BR(W) 2-6-2T no 4160, GWR 2-6-2T no 5553, WSR 2-6-0 no 9351, SDJR 2-8-0 no 88, and West Country Class 4-6-2 no 34046 Braunton; and from the diesel fleet Class 52 no D1010 Western Campaigner, Class 35 Hymek no D7017, Class 14 no D9526 and Class 47 no D1661 North Star. Normal fares will apply but there will be no concessions except for holders of Silver and Gold passes. Tickets can be obtained at discount prices if ordered in advance before 1 September. The free bus link will run from Taunton Station and Silk Mills Park and Ride once again starting at 9am and ending when the last train arrives at Bishops Lydeard. The Railway Museums at Bishops Lydeard, Blue Anchor and Williton will be open as will the DEPG sheds, heritage centre and yard area at Williton. Also open will be the Taunton Model Railway Group's Clubroom at Bishops Lydeard. There will be buffet cars on most trains through the weekend and station refreshments will be found at Bishops Lydeard, Crowcombe Heathfield, Stogumber, Williton, Watchet. Blue Anchor, Dunster and Minehead. The Souvenir Booklet with the loco diagrams should be on sale about a week before the event for £3 if ordered with advance tickets or at stations along the line, or £5 if ordered by credit/debit card from Minehead. The Late Summer Weekend is on 4-5 September 2010. More details...
23 July 2010
Details from WSR Plc
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New website for Exmoor travel
A new initiative aim to help visitors with information about enjoying Exmoor without a car. Car free, Care free Exmoor is described in a new website ExploreMoor which "aims to provide you with information, inspiration and ideas to explore the Exmoor National Park without the car. Whether you are looking to access the moors for some outdoor fun, explore the spectacular Exmoor coast, or visit one of Exmoor's famous towns or villages, you can do so without the hassle of the car." With a strong emphasis on providing information about public transport, the ExploreMoor rightly recognises the West Somerset Railway as a useful transport link: "skirting the eastern edge of the moor from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead, gateway to Exmoor." and "...the line terminates at Minehead with a variety of onward bus services across the Moor. Alternatively alight at Dunster...for a short walk to the historic town of Dunster within Exmoor National Park."
23 July 2010
Details from Somerset County Gazette
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Diary dates for diesel devotees
Further information about diesel locomotive running on the West Somerset Railway is now available. The Diesel and Electric Preservation Group have announced that the Green Timetable diesel diagram on 24 July and 14 August will be worked by Hymek no D7017; on 31 July by Class 52 no D1010; on 21 August by Class 47 no D1661; on 28 August by Crompton Class 33 no D6566, which will be also in use during the Steam Fayre on 7-8 August, also working on 6 and 9 August. During the Late Summer Weekend special event on 4-5 September, nos D7017, D1010 and D1661 will be in action. Finally, Class 52 no D1010 will work during the first day of the Camra Beer Festival Weekend 11-12 September, whilst Class 35 no D7017 will work the second day.
23 July 2010
Details from DEPG
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The Beeching Legacy
A new book by Philip Horton records the effects of the Beeching Report on the railways of the West Country. Philip will be well known to WSR supporters as the contributor of several informative and anecdotal articles about West Country railways published in the WSR Journal. This book, "The Beeching Legacy", is intended as a record of how the proposals affecting passenger services in the West Country were ruthlessly implemented over a ten year period. The area covered by this book includes the counties of Devon and Cornwall along with parts of west Somerset and Dorset. "The Beeching Legacy" is published on 31 July 2010 and the author will be at signing sessions at the official launch at Minehead Station on 31 July and 1 August. More information at the Nostalgia Collection website
22 July 2010
Details from local correspondent
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Update on the Autumn Steam Gala
Work goes on apace behind the scenes as the Special Events Planning Team prepare for the four day Autumn Steam Gala. Continuing the GWR175 anniversary celebrations the Team plan to provide another extravaganza of mainly former Great Western steam though as yet the only confirmed guest is an LMS one in the shape of Black Five no 44767 George Stephenson. Enquiries continue as to the availability of several Swindon locomotives. However two former Great Western designed steam locomotives currently receiving major overhauls at Williton Works and Minehead Loco respectively, Modified Hall no 6960 Raveningham Hall and Manor no 7828 Odney Manor are expected to be ready for the event, although not confirmed as yet. King no 6024 King Edward I is also expected back to its home base to swell the number of former GWR steam locomotives to at least seven and hopefully a further couple of visitors will be added to the list. Update We understand the information about King Edward I is wrong as no invitation was issued. SEPT have now confirmed this [added 21 July 2010].
18 July 2010
Details from WSR Plc and SEPT
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News from West Somerset Restoration
A small increase in staff for the team at Williton has been announced. The paid workshop staff will be increased from five to eight, enabling an even better service to customers.A greater number of volunteer staff is also reported. Work on Braunton has been completed in time for the Gold timetable. Raveningham Hall is planned for completion in time for the Autumn Gala. The new tender for Braunton should be ready in time for the engine at the end of the Gold timetable along with final fitting of mainline equipment. The loco will then go out on the mainline trials later in the year. Initial stripping of GWR 2-6-2T no 4561, the WSR Association's Small Prairie, has commenced and the tanks and cab will soon be removed, ready for removal of the boiler. Once the tender for Braunton has gone, the Small Prairie will move into the Shed for a full overhaul. A point has been allocated and during August it will be installed in the yard at the northern end of the Swindon Shed to enable a siding to be laid along the western side of the Shed. This siding will give us much needed storage.
18 July 2010
Details from WSR Plc
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Passenger figures to the end of June
At the end of June the total stood at 80,686 compared with 93,218 at the end of the sixth month in 2009. The Railway had our best ever Bank Holiday Weekend to round off the month of May but the combination of the generally less than wonderful weather for much of the month and the tightening of the financial prospects right across the national board is clearly affecting visitor numbers. June saw the Mixed Traffic Weekend which attracted around 3000 visitors, down on 2007 and 2009 but up on 2008. Supporters of the Railway are encouraged to help promote the Railway in any shape or form to help minimise the impact of any downturn of the potential market. This website suggests the Railway, and the Special Events Team especially, need to ensure every opportunity is made to maximise good publicity, and to provide strong promotion and a steady supply of quality information.
18 July 2010
Details from WSR Plc
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A new Station Master for Bishops Lydeard
Bishops Lydeard Station, the West Somerset Railway flagship southern terminus, has a new Station Master. He is Peter Hendy, from Honiton in Devon, a face already well known by the many who visit the railway, as he is a long standing volunteer at the station. Speaking of his appointment, Peter said, "It is both a privilege and an honour to be given the opportunity to become stationmaster at Bishops Lydeard." Many, if not most, people choose to start their journey to Minehead at Bishops Lydeard so they can enjoy the full twenty mile length of the line's superb and varied scenery. Consequently, it is a busy station. Those of you who visit the station will find friendly and helpful staff, all of whom are volunteers and endeavour to ensure you enjoy your day. "We are still looking for more volunteers to work here," adds Peter, "so don't hesitate to call us on 01823 433856 if you would like to join our team – you will be most welcome, and will find you enjoy yourself, along with the rest of us" Visit the website of the West Somerset Railway Association for more information.
17 July 2010
Details from WSRA
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Introducing Barnstaple Junction
Barnstaple Junction has been chosen as the name for a new lead on the West Somerset Railway giving access to the Norton Triangle which is planned for completion in the new year. The name, chosen by WSR Association members in an online vote, reflects the placement of the new lead which diverges from the existing Minehead branch along the truncated formation of the old line to Barnstaple which now forms one side of the new triangle. Please visit the West Somerset Railway Association website for the full story. The new junction, along with the existing Allerford Junction and Orchard Junction will be the only points on the site to gain official names.
14 July 2010
Details from WSRA
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From Trowbridge to Williton to Cardiff
The Williton Footbridge is on the move again. The bridge and associated steelwork were craned on to an extending lorry on 14 July 2010 and moved to the works of Tema Engineering Ltd in Cardiff for refurbishment. The preparation and loading took in all about six hours. Station staff were present all that time to ensure a clear roadway and the safety of passengers who were kept away from the working area. The roof supports were cut off temporarily for the journey to Cardiff. When the footbridge returns it will be ready for erection if all permissions are in place, but the refurbishment does not include the timberwork which will be completed by the Station supporters. This work has been now in hand because of both the generous contributions by mostly WSRA members and the fundraising efforts of Station staff. Fundraising continues apace as a further £6000 is required in the short term to avoid borrowing, plus a later large sum to complete the GWR style roof. The footbridge is likely to start its new life without the roof as this will cost about half as much again as the present refurbishment. Further contributions can be sent to Williton Station Fund, c/o Chris van den Arend, Lavender Cottage, 13 Long Street, Williton, Taunton, Somerset TA4 4QN
14 July 2010
Details from the Williton Station Master
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Measuring up the heritage carriages
Quality restoration work on the heritage carriages depends on quality information. Thus on Sunday 27 June a start was made by Claire Sheppy, along with Jennie and Mike Dunse, on measuring all of the coaches that currently reside in the former concrete works part of the Williton yard. At present there are five of them, nos 3631, 3665, 4546, 5929 and 5986. Claire Sheppy explains "Because coach TK 5986 (the coach that came from Tintern) is generally considered to be in the best condition of the five, we concentrated initially on this coach." For a full account of the measuring work please visit the West Somerset Steam Railway Trust website...
11 July 2010
Details from WSSRT
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Local MP visits the Railway
The MP for Bridgwater and West Somerset visited the WSR on 10 July. After a short meeting with Paul Conibeare, WSR General Manager, Ian Liddell-Grainger MP was treated to a footplate ride aboard SR 4-6-2 no 34046 Braunton on the 10.25am from Bishops Lydeard and the 12.20pm from Minehead. "An incredible experience and I enjoyed shovelling the coal" was his reaction...
10 July 2010
Details from WSR Plc
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The WSRA Chairman reports
The past year has been one of change, consolidation and progress according to the West Somerset Railway Association. Speaking at the Annual General Meeting of the WSRA, the Chairman, David Holmes, reported on a year of progress with a multitude of projects ranging from improvements to the Association's IT functions to a myriad to small and large tasks undertaken by the RAMS team, based at Bishops Lydeard. David also spoke positively of the co-operation between the Association and the WSR Plc, the latter being focussed on the operation of an attractive, safe and commercially-viable railway, and he gave several examples of how the two organisations work well together. The valued contribution by former leader Gareth Winter at Williton was warmly acknowledged. It was good to learn of continuing progress at Williton under the new leadership. Whilst it may be up to five years before the start of the overhaul of recently acquired Ditcheat Manor, it will be possible to view the loco close up at the forthcoming Steam Fayre . The result of the name of the new junction at Norton Fitzwarren was also announced. The full report can be viewed at the WSRA website .
10 July 2010
Details from WSRA
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Go by train and bus to local shows
The West Somerset Railway will be running connecting road services to some local events during July and August. Coaches and vintage buses from the fleet of Quantock Motors who are appropriately based beside the Railway's southern terminus at Bishops Lydeard will be used. A new venture for this year is the operation of a coach link from Bishops Lydeard to the centre of Taunton on Friday and Saturday 6-7 August in conjunction with Taunton Flower Show - full details . On Wednesday 28 July and Friday 20 August the WSR will be running its traditional free vintage bus links from Dunster Station for Dunster Country Fair and Dunster Show respectively. These run to Dunster Steep from which it is possible to take a short walk into the village or to the Show Ground. The vintage buses will meet trains throughout the day.
WSR General Manager Paul Conibeare commented "All three of these events are very popular daytime shows and bring increased road traffic to the area. We hope that some of the visitors will use the train and the road links both to ease some congestion and to enjoy a relaxed day out with us."
7 July 2010
Details from WSR Plc
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Denver Spur to play Minehead Station gig
Yet more live music under the canopy at Minehead Station. "Denver Spur" have been stalwarts of the British country music scene for four decades now and when the band was formed at start of the 1970s they took their name from a term in American railroading. To mark the fortieth anniversary and the connection with the great days of steam the band will be performing at Minehead Railway Station on the evening of Saturday 17 July. A special steam train will run from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead and back for the evening. Aboard the train will be a support act in the form of "Shedboy, Betsie and the Busking Set". The train will leave Bishops Lydeard at 7pm and "Denver Spur" will begin playing at 8pm. The return train will leave Minehead around 10.30pm. Inclusive tickets cost £18 and bookings can be made by ringing 01643 704996. Update: we understand this train has been cancelled [14 July 2010]
7 July 2010
Details from WSR Plc
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News about No 34046...
Good news for fans of this Bulleid West Country locomotive. SR Rebuilt West Country Class 4-6-2 no 34046 Braunton will be running in service on the West Somerset Railway during the gold timetable period (from 21 July to 3 September 2010). It is also expected to run during the week 12-16 July in lieu of LNER 4-6-2 no 60163 Tornado due to visit the Railway but which is currently out of service. The replacement 5,250 gallon tender for Braunton, being constructed from new, is nearly complete and will be fitted to the loco during the summer. Electrical equipment including data recorder required for main line running is being fitted to the loco at the moment. The air braking system is also being completed. Trials will commence later this year. Full details on the website of Braunton Management Company .
6 July 2010
Details from Braunton Management Company
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Goviers Lane Footpath Crossing upgrade is complete...
The upgrade of Goviers Lane footpath crossing over the West Somerset Railway has been completed. The Railway is replacing the long-standing red/green crossing warning lights at Goviers Lane at the east end of Watchet Station with a set of new gates. The decision has been taken after consultation with Somerset County Council, West Somerset Council and Watchet Town Council. The new crossing has been designed to meet Network Rail's national standards with outward opening gates and will be operated by the users of the pedestrian crossing. West Somerset Railway General Manager Paul Conibeare commented: "The old lights have been subject to regular vandalism in past years and as a result the crossing could be showing no indication at all to its users. Pedestrians have used their own common senses and kept a good look-out when crossing our line and we thank them for this and look forward to this continuing. The crossing now conforms to National Network standards for foot crossings and we are sure that with our train approaching at reduced speed and giving warnings of their approach we can look forward to the crossing giving access to the town and the marina for years to come"
6 July 2010
Details from WSR Plc
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Naming the new junction at Norton...
The new Junction needs a name. The newly manufactured lead to be installed at the boundary with Network Rail to allow direct access to the triangle is due for delivery within the next two weeks. The diverging road will take trains along the original Barnstaple formation. The West Somerset Railway Association is inviting Association members to choose from some of the shortlisted names already suggested for the new Junction. Further appropriate and distinctive names may also be considered. The shortlisted names and further information can be found on the WSRA website
Update: Please note the invitation is for WSRA members only and submissions to the given email address must include in the Subject line the WSRA Member's Name, WSRA Membership Number, the preferred Name for the Junction. Nothing is required in the body of the email message. Submissions not conforming will not be counted.
4 July 2010
Details from WSRA
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July meeting of WSRA Taunton Group cancelled...
The West Somerset Railway Association Taunton Group meeting for 5 July is cancelled. The Taunton Group Coordinator position is currently unfilled. Ian Aldridge, Volunteer Co-ordinator for the WSRA, writes "Unfortunately, it has not been possible to make the necessary arrangements and therefore this meeting is cancelled." Ian offers his sincere apologies and any inconvenience to those members who were due to attend. Looking ahead, John Wood will now give his early days on the WSR slide presentation on Monday 6 September, probably assisted by Nick Jones, former Operating Superintendent of the WSR.
2 July 2010
Details from WSRA
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