WSRA - West Somerset Railway Association

» Lots more news about the Railway can be found at » the official WSR website and also at » www.wsr.org.uk

The West Somerset Railway Association has announced plans to build a four coach platform at its Norton Fitzwarren triangle site in time for the 2009 Steam Fayre – due to be held on August 1st and 2nd.

The station, which will be an un-staffed Halt, will lie alongside the existing West Somerset Railway. Its main function will be to bring visitors to the site, although it is likely to have a role to play in future Gala events, and at busy times may be used for overspill car parking with a shuttle to Bishops Lydeard. It will be built on the trackbed of the original down line constructed in 1936 but lifted in the 1970s. The site has most recently been used by the HOBC to discharge ballast before the line into the triangle site was completed in April last year.

Norton will be the eleventh station on the 22 mile line giving the WSR more stations than any other Heritage line and more stations in Somerset than Network Rail. As a new station it is required to comply with current regulations and standards, although the WSRA do not consider it will be necessary to include a painted yellow line 600mm from the platform edge!

Exploratory discussions have been held with the Office of the Rail Regulator, Taunton Deane Borough Council, the Environment Agency and Somerset Highways in addition to the local Parish Council. All have signalled their approval in principle and the WSRA has now entered a Planning Application with Taunton Deane Borough Council.

» Full story...

Posted 31 December 2008

Following the success of the first volume published in 2000 and recently reprinted, The Nostaglia Collection presents a second edition, West Somerset Railway Past and Present Volume 2, featuring comparisons of the Minehead Branch as it was and as it has become in latter years.

The past images include a variety of views, both of the line when it was still in British Railways (Western Region) ownership and featuring the early preservation years. Some scenes have changed dramatcally since the line opened in March 1976, and this book also serves as a record of progress as the Railway has evolved into one of themost successful heritage lines in the country.

The book has been compiled by the Railway's Journal Editor with help of several long-standing members of the WSRA and WSSRT, and will serve as an interesting companion to the first volume.

The book will cost £16.99 and will be launched to coincide with the second weekend of the 2009 Spring Steam Gala.

It is available to order now from the Association Shop at Bishops Lydeard and will be despatched directly following the Spring Steam Gala.

Posted 31 December 2008

One of the most successful features of Bishops Lydeard in recent years has been the 'Wheel Tapper’s Buffet' at the northern end of the shop. With very limited space and facilities this has produced a significant contribution to the visitor experience at Bishops Lydeard and WSRA funds through the hard work of its volunteer staff under the guidance of Retail manager, John Pearce. The WSRA has been examining for some time a number of ways to build on the success of these facilities and believe that we have found a way forward for the 2009 season.

Buffet car 3058 is due to come out of service train use at the end of the 2008 season. It would require some repairs to allow it to continue in service in 2009 and the WSR plc have concluded that it is more sensible to concentrate efforts on finishing the conversion of another vehicle as the new third buffet car for service trains. Buffet 3058 is the oldest of the three buffet cars in service and much has been learned since 1989 when 3058 was converted. The WSR plc has no immediate plans to put 3058 back into service train use and so the WSRA has requested that this vehicle temporarily form the new buffet at Bishops Lydeard.

The vehicle would be parked on the buffer stops of the Quantock Belle siding adjacent to Bishops Lydeard signal box. Arrangements are being made for a connection to mains drainage to be available at this location. The use of 3058 will provide more and better seating for customers and the ability to offer a wider range of food, including cooked breakfasts and other meals. I know that it will be a wrench for existing staff to leave the shop environment but I also know that the spirit of camaraderie will transfer to the new arrangements.

A further advantage of this change will be that it will release additional retail space in the shop building so that the existing retail operation can be expanded.

It is expected that arrangements for 3058 will be confirmed at the WSR plc Executive meeting on 12 January 2009. It is intended to have the new buffet open in time for the 'Member’s Day' on 8 March 2009 and in full operation for the March Gala. The most important thing will be an enthusiastic cadre of volunteer staff to carry on the success of the buffet. Subject to the Exec meeting in 12 Jan, there will, therefore, be a meeting for all interested persons at Bishops Lydeard at 2.30pm on Sunday 18 January 2009. Please come along if you can. This will be an interesting and rewarding way to help the WSR and WSRA at Bishops Lydeard. Please consider if you could offer even a few hours each month to help staff this facility.

This is a further step towards a permanent, purpose built cafe at Bishops Lydeard in the future.

We can almost smell the bacon rolls already...!

Posted 29 December 2008

WSRA members are invited to spend a day on the Railway as guests of the Association and Company Directors on Sunday 8 March 2009. Access to the service trains will be entirely free of charge to holders of either a current Association membership, or current Company Staff ID card, for the member and one guest. In a letter to WSRA members, WSR Plc Chairman Mark Smith and WSRA Chairman Robin White say "This is a great opportunity to show off our wonderful Railway to friends and relatives who support us, or who might join in the work we enjoy. We will have to ask you to obtain journey tickets in advance so that we can ensure sufficient seats. You will also be made welcome should you decide to visit by car or other transport."

The Chairmen continue "Your directors are very conscious of the support received from so many members. On this special day colleagues acting as guides will be available on trains and at various locations along the line to talk to you and to give you access to the behind-thescenes aspects of our operations, and to show you our plans for future developments." Further details will be avaiable on the Railway websites, from Minehead and Bishops Lydeard offices by early February and on the day on the Railway.

Normal catering services will be operating on the trains with the usual range of hot and cold drinks, food and confectionary available at staff discounted rates to card holders.

Attendees will also learn about how to become involved as a Volunteer. The Railway is ever busier and there are many vacancies and opportunities for skilled and unskilled work. "Our guides will be able to tell you how your Railway's training schemes can lead novices and laymen to a high level of competence often supported by WSR qualifications."

For those prospective Volunteers who may be deterred by the thought of training; there are an equal number of very attractive unskilled tasks which can make a significant contribution to the Railway.

The Chairmen also understand and accept, for some members, volunteering is not an option, due to personal circumstances or distance - but such folks are just as welcome as the focus of the day will be on sharing and showing off our very special Railway with all members. Mark and Robin conclude "We very much look forward to meeting you on Sunday 8 March 2009."

For further information, including a booking form, please write to Ian Aldridge, WSRA Volunteer Coordinator, at WSRA, The Railway Station, Bishops Lydeard, Somerset TA4 3BX or » by email or print out the » online form and send it to the above address...

Posted 29 December 2008

For further information, including a booking form, please write to Ian Aldridge, WSRA Volunteer Coordinator, at WSRA, The Railway Station, Bishops Lydeard, Somerset TA4 3BX or » by email...

The Quantock Belle coach Aries is about to undergo a major mechanical overhaul at Williton Works.

The comprehensive project plan includes the following tasks to be carried out by the Quantock Belle team, West Somerset Restoration and WSR Plc - remove connecting door; remove interior panelling at gangway end; remove top weather strip; remove top mountings; remove adjacent floor section and bearers sufficient to release gangway buffing cotters; remove gangway faceplate, diaphragm etc; remove gangway timber blocks; remove as necessary steel panelling to undertake structural visual assessment and agree, with Plc CME, amount of material to be replaced. The task list continues - cut out and replace corroded steel sections; provide material sections for above fabrication work and produce new gangway timber blocks; inspect and refurbish all removed items to a suitable standard for refitment; clean and protect all non replaced steel work; rebuild and paint.

Concurrent with above the Quantock Belle team will undertake a complete repaint, following rub down and local repairs, of both sides, roof and Taunton end.

Quite a challenge which has to be finished ready for the Spring Steam Gala. Any assistance, skilled or otherwise, that can be mustered will be much appreciated. Working parties will be each Tuesday and Thursday, starting at 9am, and on many other days on an ad hoc basis.

The project leader, Brian Lee can be contacted on 01984 624885 or by email at » brianlee12@aol.com

Posted 29 December 2008

The 2008 Norton Fitzwarren Development Fund Draw was held at Bishops Lydeard Station on 15th November 2008 at 1.00pm

Position	Prize	Name	Ticket No	Town
First	£1,000.00	Mr Fogwill	038881	Sidmouth
Second	£500.00	Mrs Kirkby	119745	Rochdale
Third	£200.00	Mr Robinson	144808	Taunton
Fourth	£100.00	Mr & Mrs Yeoman	020262	Clevedon
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Wright	125104	Barnstaple
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Eaton	035652	Tiverton
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Mera	044472	Gillingham
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Whitmarsh	030484	Stoke Gifford
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Dady	124100	Grays
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Ker	053288	Ludlow
Fifth	£50.00	Mrs Barker	149561	Scunthorpe
Fifth	£50.00	Mrs Rodyer	120550	Lichfield
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Smith	083736	Dorchester
Fifth	£50.00	Mr & Mrs Legg	100888	Taunton
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Cookes	011049	Warwick
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Rees	037312	Baltonsborough
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Sparks	149281	Ilminster
Fifth	£50.00	Mrs Pellett	039814	Canterbury
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Bulley	124724	Plymouth
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Jones	128424	Rugley
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Kellew	130876	Wales
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Hill	030758	Burton On Trent
Fifth	£50.00	Mrs Breed	120444	Bridgwater
Fifth	£50.00	Mr Cowdrey	129617	Ringwood

The draw raised over £18,000 for the Norton Fitzwarren Development and we would like to thank all those who took part.

Posted 29 November 2008

The West Somerset Railway Association report work in progress to level the Allerford length of the old Barnstaple branch prior to ballasting.

The works have revealed the original formation was widened on the Up side using locomotive ash - probably from Taunton shed. This is more likely to have occurred during the installation of a second track in the 1930s.

The formation rises sharply as it approaches the remains of the bridge over Allerford Lane and the formation is being lowered slightly to reduce the slope - the extra material being re-used to widen the trackbed to accommodate the ten foot requirement between tracks on what will eventually become a siding and a headshunt.

» Lots more about the Norton Fitzwarren Triangle Project...

Posted 22 November 2008

On the Barnstaple formation

The planned move of the RAMS painting facility from the roller-shutter BG stationed in the Goods shed siding at Bishops Lydeard, which had been planned for this winter, is likely to be delayed for at least another year.

The need for the move had been driven by the need to release the BG so that it could be refurbished to replace the existing BG used by the Signal and Telegraph department, which is in poor condition. The WSR plc have now reviewed the coming year’s work program in the light of the need to write a tough budget for 2009. Refurbishment of the BG will not now take place in 2009 and the plc have confirmed that the BG can continue in WSRA use until Easter 2010.

It is, therefore, not sensible to install the container workshops in Bishops Lydeard car park which were to have replaced the BG until next winter at the earliest. Refurbishment of the wooden GWR vans which are to replace the decaying portacabin will continue during 2009.

At the request of the WSRA Committee, the WSR plc have given the Taunton Model Railway Group (‘TMRG’) notice to leave the site they occupy on Bishops Lydeard station to the north of the goods shed at the end of 2009. Competition for space at Bishops Lydeard is fierce and the WSRA Committee believe that better use can be made of the TMRG site.

The present licence for TMRG runs out in August 2009 and TMRG had been promised at least 12 months notice by the WSR plc. TMRG have been given notice to expire on 31 December 2009, which is a 14 month period of notice and a 4 month extension on the present licence.

The WSRA Committee will be developing proposals during 2009 to ensure that this site makes a significant contribution to the Railway and the Association from the start of the 2010 season.

Posted 14 November 2008

Just right for those wanting a leisurely lunch after Christmas.

On 30 December 2008, the West Somerset Railway Association are offering an extra special Quantock Belle luxury dining train.

For just £34 per person, the special will leave Bishops Lydeard around lunch time. En route to Minehead, a three course Roast Beef Lunch will be served at the table. And on the return trip, mince pies!

Ring 01823 433856 for reservations...

Posted 13 November 2008

Have you got time to spare and are looking for a fresh challenge? We know you have an interest in Heritage Railways and their preservation and promotion. Although we have been successful in recruiting to other posts, we are still looking for a Treasurer.

We are looking for a qualified accountant (chartered or certified) to join the Board and to take responsibility for the financial affairs of the Association. We are entering an exciting period of change and development over the next five years. We want somebody with drive and enthusiasm to help us to deliver this agenda.

Interested? Want to talk about it before going any further? Then call Robin White WSRA Chairman on 07710 336807. For more details including job description please e-mail WSRA Company Secretary Penny Gardiner at » cosec@wsra.org.uk . Closing date is Friday 19th December 2008.

Posted 5 November 2008

Roger Stobbs, WSR Legacy Co-ordinator writes:

Dying and making a Will is usually a subject that most people try and ignore, and so only about one in three people make a Will. Without a Will, there is a risk that your estate may not go where you intend; it may even end up going to the Government !

Making a Will is a very personal matter, but it protects your loved ones and can help prevent anguish for them at a difficult time.

All we ask is that you remember the WSR in your Will so that thousands more people will be able to experience the joy of heritage railways.

A legacy or gift of any size would be most welcome and, as both the WSRA and WSSRT are registered charities, it may prevent your estate from paying inheritance tax. I am sure you would prefer your money goes to the WSR rather than the Treasury!

Whilst the day-to-day income from fares, shops and catering covers the normal running and maintenance of trains, it does not generate enough (especially this year) to invest in projects such as expansion, education, restoration, conservation. Examples of the ways in which legacies or gifts of different sizes can help the railway include :

» £500 could buy 50 sleepers which would provide much needed siding space to accommodate historic vehicles;

» £1,000 could enhance the authentic appearance of the railway by installing a goods yard loading gauge or restoring a lengthman’s hut;

» £5,000 would allow us to buy, transport and protect a heritage carriage;

» £10,000 would allow us to renovate the roof of a station building or goods shed and so protect that building for the next 50 years;

» £100,000 would restore a 1930’s GWR coach as part of a heritage train;

» £350,000 is the cost of a major overhaul of a steam locomotive

So, as you see, your legacy can really count!

A leaflet is available containing advice or, if you prefer, contact me via 01823 433856 and more directly via legacy@wsra.org.uk. I would be pleased to discuss matters confidentially and answer any queries you may have.

See the » Legacy Page...

Posted 5 November 2008

The 2008 WSRA Station Awards took place on 25 October at Watchet Station, at 1.30pm. Prizes were awarded as follows:

» Best Kept Station	Watchet
» Best Kept Station, Runner Up	Bishops Lydeard
» Most Improved Station	Watchet
» Best Floral Display	Bishops Lydeard
» Best Garden	Stogumber
» Highly Commended	Doniford Halt

The Awards were presented by WSRA Chairman, Robin White. The Watchet station staff made everyone very welcome, with tea and cakes after the presentation.

An excellent video of the event, made by Mike Dan, can be viewed at YouTube

Posted 26 October 2008

If you missed the Volunteers’ Liaison Meeting, here is another chance to make your views heard. A Consultation Evening will be held on Saturday 8 November at 5pm at the Ruishton Inn. A buffet will be available.

Areas to be discussed:
» Communication
» 2009 Ticket Prices
» Quality of Service
» Quality of Food
» Ambience Issues
» Recruitment
» Staffing Flexibility
» Scheduling of Trains
» Special Menus
» Equipment Issues
» Uniform
» Training
» and more...

Posted 19 October 2008

The West Somerset Railway Arts Programme got off to a sparkling start with a Champagne reception. The Patrons of the Arts Programme met at The Old Rectory, Ashbrittle, to provide their views on a programme for next year.

Members of the Ashbrittle Arts Group came in period dress as a butler, wine waiter, scullery maid, and there were two parlour maids to serve dinner and 'hover' as required. Three original paintings of the WSR by Jim Munnion, a local artist, were on display. There were special train inspired flower arrangements and the house glittered with firelight and candles. After a three course dinner, followed by cheese and biscuits and a vintage port specially decanted for this event, it was time for the highlight of the evening, Train of Events.

The entire party trooped up the stairs to the private cinema, for coffee and an introduction to Train of Events. This quintessentially British film is a product of Ealing Studios, and begins with a devastating train crash on the Liverpool to Euston line. The action is then taken back over the previous weeks to tell four separate stories involving an engine driver and his family, a romantic young couple, a Shakespearian actor, and a philandering concert hall conductor. A must-see film for railway enthusiasts shot entirely on location, it also gave an atmospheric glimpse of the drab life of post-war London. (Shown by kind permission of Canal Plus Image (UK) Ltd and Optimum Releasing.) And of course, in keeping with the period feel to the evening, the film was preceded by a vintage newsreel.

What’s next? Well, make sure that you drop by the Art Exhibition to be held in the Bishops Lydeard Waiting Room during Somerset in Autumn. There will be art for sale, so bring your chequebook.

There were many good ideas for next year, as far as arts events and alternative film venues. Speed-dating on the QB? Who knows?!

Posted 16 October 2008

The Association will be offering a Food Hygiene Certificate Course free of charge for all interested volunteers.

It is a one day course scheduled to run from 9.15am to 4pm, in the meeting room at Brunel House, Bishops Lydeard. Two dates have been proposed, Saturday 8 November, and Saturday 22 November.

Reservations will be essential, so please contact the Association Manager, Susan Kaufman if you are interested or would like more details, » email manager@wsra.org.uk or telephone 01823 431311.

Posted 14 October 2008

Following a need identified by the WSRA for additional representation on the WSRA Board for volunteers with an operational role on the WSR, and subsequently advertised in the WSRA Journal, I applied for, and was appointed to this position. For those of you who haven't come across me on the railway, I'm in charge of the Ticket Inspection Department, and my job title is TTI Co-ordinator/Examiner. I'm still active as a regular Travelling Ticket Inspector, and I'm also the Personal Track Safety (PTS) Training Supervisor for the WSR. I hold a main line PTS qualification. I'm currently engaged on a voluntary programme of PTS appreciation courses throughout the railway, where over two hundred of you will have passed through my hands by the end of the 2008 season. I aim to continue this programme throughout 2009 and beyond. For several years I've also been the "Lad Printer" in the Edmondson ticket printing works at Dunster along side Dave Johnson, and under the watchful eye(s) of Colin and Chris Dowrick, but I'm now only carrying out occasional cover and a watching brief on the printing machine maintenance front as in another life I trained as a Precision Mechanical Engineer. I'm fully retired, and I spend around 12 days a month as a volunteer on the WSR, plus a considerable amount of time working at home (Wellington) which is fairly handy to the railway.

To enable me to represent the views and aspirations of volunteers working for the various operating departments of the railway, I intend to talk to as many of you as I can in addition to my ordinary day-to-day contacts whilst working on the trains, or you can seek me out at the contact numbers below.

However, I made it very clear to the interview panel, that I didn't intend to be just the mouthpiece for complaints, or to take on the job of an un-elected Shop Steward! …………This was fully accepted.

I see the role as a collecting point for ideas and suggestions, and a conduit for proposed action and policies of the WSRA back to the coal face (whoops! no footplate pun intended!) as well as promoting the WSRA and encouraging those of you who are not yet members to join and enjoy the benefits of four first class informative award winning journals per year plus the considerable travel discounts available, whilst supporting the ongoing development and acquisition programmes that the Association is currently undertaking.

Please engage me in dialogue if you see me around (I invariably wear a name badge) especially if you are attached to one of the operating departments, or ring or email me if you have something you would like discuss, or you would wish me to take to the WSRA Board. I can be reached on - 01823 663718 (H) 07719 909 596 (M) or email Geoff.Cross@btinternet.com

Posted 13 October 2008

Chairman Robin White writes "At the WSRA Committee meeting yesterday [11 October], four decisions were taken which need to be communicated to members."

We decided to SELL locomotive 6412 to the South Devon Railway for the £160,000 offered.

I had received 316 e-mails or letters from members on the subject. Of these, 284 were in favour of the sale, 25 against and 7 folks took the trouble to write to say that they were undecided. More important than the numbers, however, was that no correspondent could suggest alternative financial logic which gave 6412 a sensible place on the WSR of the early 21st century. Steam Enginemen courses and Quantock Bells are just not enough. I have valued all the communications I have received from the very shortest e-mail of only 5 characters ("Sell!") to the careful 4-page letters two members sent me. I have tried to acknowledge them all.

6412 will not be far away, will be well looked after, and we will see her back occasionally, I am sure. Now the task is ensure that 7821 and 4561 will be working on the line soon.

Following the previous 'Brief 4' circulated to members, the Friends of Minehead Station and the WSR Company decided to keep the CCT vehicles which had previously been offered to solve the need to replace the BG which RAMS presently use in the Museum siding at Bishops Lydeard.

The Committee decided that it had to support the work performed by RAMS and so have authorised the purchase and installation of two workshop containers in the Bishops Lydeard lower car park over the winter period. These will be shielded by a close-boarded fence which will also enclose the station rubbish facilities. It is regretted that 5 car parking spaces will be lost but the alternative was to reduce the facilities available to RAMS. The containers will take up less space that the CCT’s previously proposed because they will not require a ramped access to be built.

Two wooden GWR Box vans now standing at Dunster West will be refurbished to replace the station workshop now contained in the portakabin on the cattle dock. These will normally reside at Bishops Lydeard, adding to the period scene, but will run in goods trains as required during special events.

We are pleased to announce that the new permanent Association Secretary will take up her (voluntary) post from the November Committee Meeting.

She is Penny Gardiner, aged 60, a Crowcombe Heathfield resident who works part time for Deloitte’s in London.

We are very grateful to Stephen Williams, who has temporarily filled this slot since Brian Crudge's departure earlier in the year. We are pleased to be retaining Stephen's energy and enthusiasm as he completes the review of the Association memorandum and Articles for presentation to the membership next year and also assists with a number of other forward planning tasks.

I have felt for a long while that the WSRA needs to make a firmer connection with those who volunteer as guards, enginemen, signalmen, buffet staff and the like. I am pleased to say that GEOFF CROSS, who will be known to many of you, has agreed to join the WSRA Committee to take up the challenge of spreading the Association message to all those grades.

Posted 12 October 2008

West Somerset Railway volunteers may like to note the date of the next Liaison Meeting. This will be held on Saturday 11 October 2008 at Bishops Lydeard Village Hall starting at 2pm. It is an opportunity to meet and questions of the Association Committee and representatives of the WSR Plc.

Questions should be sent, in advance please, to the WSRA Secretary at The Railway Station, Bishops Lydeard, Taunton, Somerset TA4 3BX, by 9 October at the latest. We would also suggest emailing your question, clearly marked as a question for this particular meeting to wsra@btconnect.com as time is rather short...

Posted 7 October 2008

The West Somerset Railway Association report a good response to the consultation over the possible sale of GWR 0-6-0PT no 6412. The WSRA-owned locomotive is currently in the early stages of a major overhaul. Meanwhile, the Association are considering an offer from the South Devon Railway to buy the Pannier in its present condition. Over 250 WSRA members have now expressed an opinion, via a managed consultation process, on the proposed sale. The consultation period ends on 9 October 2008 - WSRA members who wish to have their say should send your comments to the Chairman, either by post to the usual address at Bishops Lydeard, or by » email to chairman@wsra.org.uk

Those who have already commented need not repeat their comments.

Posted 3 October 2008

No 6412

WSRA Chairman Robin White writes...

"Today (24 September 2008) was a very special day for the WSR – the launch of Braunton back into service after its long restoration, hauling the fundraising train for the Steam Trust’s Heritage Carriages Project, sponsored by Steam Railway magazine.

"I suspect that it is a long time since we saw so many members of the media at Bishops Lydeard and the Television coverage this evening and likely newspaper coverage in the next few days can only help the whole railway in the run-up to what will be superb autumn Gala. We are likely to be very busy!

"The day showed the railway at its very best. All parts of the railway, the Association, the Company and the Trust, worked together on what was a complicated day. Everything went right on the day and everyone did their part to achieve that. The locomotive looked stunning, the choreography of events at Bishops Lydeard was a joy to watch, the sun shone at the right time, everyone behaved responsibly whilst enjoying a hard-earned celebration on the train and so everyone had a jolly good time.

"Whilst the day really belonged to Gareth Winter and the Williton restoration team, special mention has to be made of Dick Wood who masterminded events and the media arrangements at Bishops Lydeard with obvious professionalism and enthusiasm. (Where he obtained the rubber champagne bottle from has not yet been explained to me…….).

"2008 has not been the easiest year for the WSR in a number of respects but it seems that we are ending it on a high.

"To ALL of those involved in today, whatever your part in events……THANK YOU"

Posted 29 September 2008

No 34046 is back in traffic at last - come and celebrate with us. Subject to it passing its final inspections, SR Pacific locomotive Braunton will be launched into traffic on Wednesday 24 September. After appropriate ceremonies and celebrations at Bishops Lydeard, it will haul a non-stop train from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead departing at 1 o'clock. Thereis a dining portion on this train, being run in aid of the West Somerset Railway Heritage Carriages Project and if you would like to celebrate the return to steam of Braunton in style, a limited number of tickets are available at £50 per head. Vintage bus connection from Taunton station at 12.10pm. Bookings via the WSR Association Office at Bishops Lydeard 01823 433856.

Posted 10 September 2008

Continuing the theme of openness and transparency, the Association Committee wants to give Members the chance to read and comment on the draft Minutes from the meeting in July to ensure that they are as accurate as possible. The Minutes are now available » here and any thoughts or observations should be sent to Steve Williams, Company Secretary, either to the Registered Office at The Railway Station, Bishops Lydeard, Taunton, Somerset TA4 3BX or by email to » wsra@bt connect.com. Comments to be received by no later than Sunday 30th November 2008.

Posted 9 September 2008

Mark Smith, who around the end of September takes over as Chairman of the West Somerset Railway Plc, is holding a series of meetings with WSR workers. The "Meet the Chairman Elect" get-togethers will be as inclusive as possible and everyone who considers themselves to be a worker at any level will be welcomed. Mark will first introduce himself as Company Chairman, then give a personal assessment of the current state of the Railway, and will close by outlining some priorities for action in the short and medium term. Then it is over to the audience for questions, comments and suggestions. Venues are Minehead at 8.45am and 10.30am on 25 September; at Williton at 3pm on 27 September; and Bishops Lydeard at 9am on 28 September.

Posted 9 September 2008

Chairman Robin White writes: "The maroon roller-shutter BG coach (the 'BG') presently stabled in the Goods shed siding was purchased by the plc for the Signal & Telegraph Department. At the time of purchase it was not immediately required and was loaned to RAMS for a limited period. It must be released at Easter 2009 so that it can be refurbished and fitted out for the S&T Department to provide them with appropriate mobile workshop facilities so that they can begin the works to extend Williton loop, likely to start in 2010. The BG was due to be removed in late autumn 2008 but I have negotiated an extension on that until Easter 2009 to allow the opportunity for alternative facilities to be provided."

The discussion continues » here

Posted 7 September 2008

Chairman Robin White writes:

I wrote to members on 11 August 2008 to inform them of the offer, from the South Devon Railway, to purchase locomotive 6412 in its present unrestored state and to allow WSRA members to comment on the proposed sale. That letter was available to members at stations and via the various websites associated with the Railway.

The Committee has been pleased to receive a healthy number of comments from members which helped to inform the Committee's discussion at its meeting on 5 September.

We concluded that we should allow that same opportunity for comment to ALL members and to that end a version of my letter of 11 August will be included with the WSR Journal due for publication next week.

The time for comment is therefore extended to 9 October 2008, in advance of the next WSRA Committee Meeting which will take place on the morning of 11 October 2008.

As before, I would be pleased to receive as many comments on this decision for the WSRA Committee as possible. Please say whether you are for, or against acceptance of the offer, why, and what alternatives you might suggest and why. Please send your comments to me, either by post to the usual address at Bishops Lydeard, or by » email to chairman@wsra.org.uk

Those who have already commented need not repeat their comments.

Posted 6 September 2008

No 6412

Bishops Lydeard Station Staff on 31 August 2008

The Bishops Lydeard Annual Station Staff Meeting was held on 31 Aug 2008. It was well attended. Station Master Ken Davidge welcomed over 30 people from the various departments and groups including RAMS, operating staff, shop and booking office. WSRA Chairman Robin White also attended and led a lively debate on the "way ahead'" for the busy southern terminus of the WSR.

Posted 1 September 2008

A previous news item explained the proposals for the potential sale of the GWR Pannier Tank no 6412 to the South Devon Railway. With the Pannier being very much linked with the opening of the reborn West Somerset Railway in 1976, the news of the potential sale is sure to stir deep feelings and generate much discussion, debate and representations.

To ensure WSRA members views are taken into account when the sale proposals are discussed at the WSRA Committee on 5 September, it is important that members contact » Robin White WSRA Chairman by 2 September.

» Read the original full message

Posted 27 August 2008

No 6412

The next meeting of the WSRA Taunton Group is due to take place at the usual venue - the GWRSA Snug Bar, near Taunton Station - on Monday 1st September, at the usual time of 7.45pm. The speaker is to be Dave Hartland (well known in a GWS Taunton Group context), who is, as you may know, an entertaining, humorous, speaker. His title is "The Sparks Flew Upwards!" All are very welcome.

For full details of Taunton Area Group meetings please contact Peter Darke on 01984 656222, or fax 01984 656747 or » email peter.darke@virgin.net

Posted 22 August 2008

Station Master Ken Davidge writes, "It has been eight months since I took up the position of Station Master and we agreed at our first meeting that we should have two meetings per year. To this end I would like to invite you to a meeting on 31 August 2008 in the Museum Meeting Room, Bishops Lydeard at 14:00. The meeting proper will start at 14:15 to allow the 'on duty' staff to join in. the meeting will run as follows:

»	14:00 - 14:15	Welcome (meet new people)
»	14:20 - 14:25	The Great Bishops Lydeard Debate, speaker Robin White, Assoc Chairman
»	14:25 - 15:00	Questions to Robin
»	15:00 - 15:10	Break
»	15:10 - 15:20	The year so far
»	15:20 - 15:30	Any Other Business
»	15:30 - 16:00	Meet new people

Although the meeting is primarily for Bishops Lydeard station staff, other staff, including booking office, shop/buffet, WSRA Office. RAMS, and on-train staff will be welcome, particularly in the light of our main speaker.

I hope that you can all make it as it promises to be an interesting meeting.

There will be a short session at the beginning and end with tea and coffee to allow you to meet all the new members of the team.

As there is a good possibility that the majority of all the station staff will be together it will be a good idea to get some photographs of the team so if you can come in uniform please do."

Posted 17 August 2008

Bishops Lydeard Station

In a message to Association members, the Chairman, Robin White, writes "At the WSRA Committee meeting on 5th September, the Committee faces a controversial decision and I thought it best to make this plain to allow as many members as possible to comment before that meeting. You have elected your Committee to deal with important matters but I believe in conducting the Association’s business with the highest possible degree of openness and there are decisions which require, in my view, some consultation with the membership. We have received an offer, from the South Devon Railway, of £160,000 for locomotive 6412, in its present, unrestored, state. I believe this offer has a number of advantages for the Association - No 6412 is now too small for other than peripheral service on the WSR; extensive repairs are required, including particularly extensive boiler repairs; the offer received is a very fair one; the sale proceeds will mean that we have significant sums put aside for the restorations of 4561 and 7821 Ditcheat Manor. Set against these advantages, I understand the enormous feeling for 6412 on the line as the locomotive obtained when the line opened and which saw considerable service in the early years of the WSR." » The full message

Posted 11 August 2008

No 6412

Ditcheat Manor - purchased by the West Somerset Railway Association a few weeks ago - is expected to leave the Churnet Valley Railway by the end of August. The locomotive will go to LNWR Heritage at Crewe, where the boiler will be de-tubed for the inspection which it is hoped will define the work to allow a two-year extension to the boiler ticket. It is expected that we will know whether that is possible by the end of September. The tender will come direct to Minehead, to join the increasing collection of GWR tenders which our CME is amassing!

Posted 6 August 2008

Ditcheat Manor at Cheddleton

The annual West Somerset Railway Steam Fayre and Vintage Rally held this year over the weekend of 2 August was a resounding success on its new site at Norton Fitzwarren. Thousands of visitors enjoyed a spectacular collection of steam traction engines, vintage and military vehicles, railway exhibits and other attractions. Despite showers on Saturday morning and after the ring displays had finished on Sunday afternoon, folks came for all over the country to see the show.

West Somerset Railway Association Chairman, Robin White, said: "It was brilliant rally with some spectacular exhibits which are a tribute to British Engineering skills. Rally organisers Humphrey Davies, Mike Buttell and their army of helpers worked their socks off to create a great family day out and were rewarded with more visitors than we expected. Our new site at Norton Fitzwarren has been perfect and we are already think how to make the rally bigger and better next year." A particular star of the show was Southern Railway express locomotive Braunton which made a special guest appearance on Sunday afternoon. It is now undergoing commissioning trials after a ten year overhaul and will be joining the WSR fleet in the next few weeks.

Posted 6 August 2008

The 2008 Steam Fayre & Vintage Rally

The West Somerset Railway is pleased to announce that an EXTRA special guest will be attending the Railway’s Steam Fayre and Vintage Rally this weekend - 2-3 August - at Norton Fitzwarren near Taunton.

1940’s Southern Railway express steam locomotive Braunton will be coming to the Rally all day on Sunday 3rd August. After a 5-year restoration programme Braunton has progressed sufficiently in its proving trials to allow a last minute appearance at the Rally.

West Somerset Railway Chairman Robin White said: "The Rally is a tremendous Somerset summer event not to be missed. We are open from 10 to 5 on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd. The collection of traction engines, vintage vehicles and other exhibits is a great family day out and a testament to Britain’s engineering skills. On the West Somerset Railway we are carrying on that tradition at our heritage engineering centre at Williton station where the transformation of locomotive Braunton from rusty hulk to 1940’s engineering marvel has progressed apace. Members of the restoration team, including engineer Gareth Winter, will be on hand at the Rally to answer questions about the locomotive and the work performed on it."

As with all locomotives during their proving period, the appearance at the Rally is subject to the locomotive continuing to pass its engineering checks.

Posted 31 July 2008

Braunton on recent test run

Station Master Ken Davidge reports, "Following the successful drive to recruit more staff two more key posts at Bishops Lydeard have been filled. Rod Bradley has accepted a Deputy Station Master post and is now to been seen managing the Friday slot. Rod, an ex BT manager, brings a wealth of managerial experience and is a keen diesel supporter bringing a new aspect to station staff (if it isn’t steam it isn’t a locomotive!). Meantime, Jenny McCruden has accepted the post of Roster Clerk and is getting to grips with the difficulties of having sufficient volunteers on the Station. Jenny comes to us from Trading Standards and is the second lady to join the team on the platform duties. She will continue with Monday duties on the Station but will occasionally disappear into the Station Master's office to produce the roster sheets. For those up to date with computer technology Jenny can be contacted through » blroster@wsra.org.uk. 11 new volunteers have now been recruited and filling those long gold timetable days is getting easier but we are not there yet. We still need a few more with an emphasis on weekdays. Anybody who would like to help run the Station is especially welcome. Contact Ken Davidge on » blstationmaster@wsra.org.uk and come in for a look - there is always a cup of tea waiting, no previous experience necessary as full training is given."

Posted 21 July 2008

Rod Bradley

Jennie McCruden

The WSRA is delighted to announce that it has purchased GWR-designed 4-6-0 Manor class locomotive no 7821 Ditcheat Manor for use on the line. Ditcheat Manor visited the West Somerset Railway in 1998 and the type is very suitable for the line, designed specifically for heavy traffic on more lightly engineered lines. Nos 7820 Dinmore Manor and 7828 Odney Manor are already based on the line.

Ditcheat Manor is 'out of ticket' at the moment but a rapid restoration is being examined which it is hoped will see the loco back in traffic by late 2008 or early 2009. We should know if this is possible by the autumn. This would help the railway through the period during which other locomotives may be out of traffic for re-tyreing and wheel-turning. The steam shortage the WSR has experienced through May, June and July 2008 have served to demonstrate just how important it is for the WSR to remain a STEAM heritage railway and Ditcheat Manor will assist with that in future years. » Full details...

Posted 20 July 2008

Ditcheat Manor at Blue Anchor Station in 1998.

The West Somerset Railway Association ran a competition at the WSRA stand at Bishops Lydeard Fete on 19 July.

Visitors were invited to "Guess the weight of the not-so-slim Station Master", Ken Davidge. WSRA Manager Susan Kaufman, attired as the Slim Controller, joined in the fun.

The day's ventures raised useful funds for Association works and many WSR timetables and Steam Fayre leaflets were distributed.

Oh - the correct answer? Ask Ken.

Posted 19 July 2008

The Annual General Meeting of the West Somerset Railway Association was held at Bishops Lydeard Village Hall on 12 July 2008. Incoming Chairman Robin White was duly elected and the text of the Chairman's Address is available » here. During the meeting, former Treasurer Mike Grimoldby is presented with a tankard by Chairman Robin White as a token of thanks for his work for the Railway over many years and a tankard too for Humphrey Davies in appreciation of his 10 years as Chairman from his successor Robin White. And for her sterling efforts on the finances in the absence of a treasurer, the WSRA bookkeeper Anita Hall-Roberts was thanked by WSRA Manager Susan Kaufman.

Posted 14 July 2008

The WSRA Norton Fitzwarren site was a busy place on 13 July. The day saw the combined forces of the WSRA Permanent Way and Special Projects teams preparing for the » Steam Fayre and laying the first section of track on the Barnstaple formation. At one time there were five different groups, preparing the crossing from the public cars park ready for the Rally, taking shuttering off the last culvert under the East Chord, erecting a banner to face the mainline and advertise the Steam Fayre, safety railing a footbridge across a ditch and of course a further group laying a further three 60 foot panels of track on the original up formation. In all approximately thirty volunteers. Meanwhile Wessex Water has almost completed the installation of a metered hydrant at Norton Bridge to supply water for the Steam Fayre and in the future for visiting locomotives - the connection being near enough to the WSR line to connect a hose from hydrant to locomotive. A stop for morning coffee was timed to coincide with the passage of Tangmere on the Torbay Express service, and there were plenty of FGW and CrossCountry services passing during the rest of the day to admire our progress. If you've not seen Norton be sure to make a date for 2-3 August for the » Steam Fayre when the public will be admitted to the site....

Posted 14 July 2008

Andrew Padfield has become the latest Deputy Station Master at Bishops Lydeard. Andrew joins Eric Bennet, Clive Goddard, Ian Hibbard, Stuart Hookins, Chris Sheppard and Malc Stacey. With Bishops Lydeard’s busy station requiring a Deputy for each day Andrew will shortly take up the Saturday position which leaves Monday and Friday still without deputies. Any existing or potential volunteers who would like to be considered for a Deputy Station Master job should contact Ken Davidge, Station Master by telephoning 01404 44021 or by » email...

Posted 26 June 2008

Your legacy matters. The day-to-day income from fares, shops and catering covers the cost of running the trains. But it does not provide income to invest in railway expansion, heritage train restoration, educational facilities or conservation of heritage artefacts and records.

But did you know that legacies fund investments for the future! The Railway are holding a Will Surgery for folks to meet the WSR Legacy Officer, Roger Stobbs and Ashfords (Solicitors) between 11am and 4pm in the Quantock Belle train at Bishops Lydeard Station on Saturday 12 July 2008.

For more information, ring 01823 433856 or » email legacy@wsra.org.uk

Posted 26 June 2008

No 9038

Volunteer gardeners at Bishops Lydeard Station near Taunton have been helped in their efforts to achieve floral competition success this summer thanks to a £150 donation from a garden centre in Somerset.

Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre in Monkton Heathfield near Taunton donated the money to help pay for floral displays and flower beds.

Ian Aldridge, the Volunteer Co-ordinator and Deputy Head Gardener at Bishops Lydeard, said "The donation from Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre is greatly appreciated. All the gardening work at Bishops Lydeard Station is done by volunteers.

This year we are entering our floral displays in the Taunton in Bloom Competition and the WSR Best Station Competition."

Posted 26 June 2008

Bishops Lydeard Station Gardens

Opportunities exist for members with appropriate qualifications and experience to make a significant contribution to the West Somerset Railway. If you think you might be the person for any of these, please write to, or » email, the WSRA Secretary at Bishops Lydeard. Please note: these roles are WSRA Committee posts and will require regular attendance at Association Committee meetings which have traditionally been held at Bishops Lydeard on the second Friday of each month (except August).

Treasurer
Voluntary post - ex-officio Member of WSRA Committee Volunteer Treasurer required to oversee the finances of the West Somerset Railway Association, a charity operating as a limited company. Preferably with experience in preparation and presentation of company annual accounts, budgets, cash flow forecasts and management accounts. Professional accountancy background essential.

Secretary
Voluntary post - ex-officio Member of WSRA Committee Volunteer Secretary required to oversee the administration of the West Somerset Railway Association, a charity operating as a company limited by guarantee with over 5000 members. Preferably with experience in administration. IT and written skills essential.

Public Relations and Press Officer
Voluntary post - Member of WSRA Committee Volunteer Public Relations and Press Officer required to ensure the WSRA achieves appropriate coverage in the local, national and railway media; to make the most of good news stories and manage any bad news efficiently as required; to advise on all public relations and media management matters for the WSRA. Experience and expertise in public relations, journalism or a related field, and excellent communication skills essential.

Operations Staff Representative (new post)
Voluntary post - Member of WSRA Committee Volunteer required to represent operational volunteers (loco crews, signalmen, guards, TTIs, Buffet) on the WSRA Committee. Able to command respect from these grades. Requires good communication skills.

Posted 24 June 2008

The West Somerset Railway Association is pleased to announce that after a period of careful negotiations with S D Sherring and Sons owners of the former Hansons Concrete Works at Williton a Licence Agreement for the use of the site has been signed in order to develop the engineering business by West Somerset Restoration.

The Licence Agreement is a part of the process prior to obtaining a 10 year Lease Agreement that will be signed shortly.

Over the next few weeks a thorough survey of the site will be undertaken in preparation for the compilation of plans showing track work, buildings and storage facilities. In addition plans are being developed to identify and apply for the funding required to help carry this work forward.

» West Somerset Restoration is managed and funded by the West Somerset Railway Association (WSRA) and is based in the Swindon Shed, which is a Grade II Listed building and was originally situated on the site of the Swindon Railway Works.

West Somerset Restoration's primary objective is to support and maintain the WSRA locomotives and to provide a heavy engineering facility complementing those facilities of the West Somerset Railway at Minehead. There are a number of jobs currently being worked on including the extensive and complicated restoration of Bullied Pacific No 34046 Braunton and the overhaul of Tank Locomotives 6412 and 6695.

The team at Williton is keeping traditional engineering alive and flourishing in Somerset and is interested in taking on a wide range of tasks in order to maximise on the engineering potential and to develop an educational and heritage resource for future generations to see and to enjoy.

The West Somerset Railway is Britain’s longest "heritage" railway running for 20 miles between Bishops Lydeard (4 miles from Taunton) and Minehead. It carries over 200,000 passengers per year and is estimated to generate some £6 million annually for the local economies of Taunton Deane and West Somerset.

Posted 12 June 2008

Sherrings Yard and the Swindon Shed

We currently have a shortage of station staff at Bishops Lydeard, due mainly to illness. We are struggling during the current timetable and the situation will become worse later in the year, if not addressed now. There are days when only one person is on duty, nowhere near enough for a busy station like Bishops Lydeard.

Therefore, if anyone would like to come along to Bishops Lydeard station and help us out, you will be made very welcome and will receive a thorough training, if necessary.

The days that we most desperately need cover are Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays. But, help on any other days would also be gratefully received. If anyone would like to help, could you please ring Ken Davidge, the Bishops Lydeard Stationmaster, on 01404 44021 or » email him at kenefd@aol.com and he will contact you.

Posted 20 May 2008

The West Somerset Railway Association is holding a New Volunteers Day on Sunday 8 June starting at 11 am at Bishops Lydeard Station which is just 4 miles from Taunton. Representatives of all the departments will be there to explain the jobs available, which are many and varied. People are not just needed for such railway jobs as guards, signalmen, ticket inspectors, loco crews and engineers but also cutting back lineside vegetation or working on stations or in the buffet cars.

After being welcomed and briefed at Bishops Lydeard the new volunteers will have an opportunity to see the West Somerset Railway at work for themselves, leaving Bishops Lydeard by the 12.40pm steam train and returning on the 2.15pm from Minehead. The day will end around 4pm at Bishops Lydeard.

More information about the New Volunteers Day can be obtained by ringing the West Somerset Railway Association Office on 01823 433856.

More information about volunteering on the railway can be found on the » Volunteers Page.

Posted 20 May 2008

You may not be surprised to learn that we (WSRA and GWS Taunton Groups) have to CANCEL the trip arranged for Bank Holiday Monday, May 5th to the Dartmoor Railway and/or the Devon Railway Centre.

The reason for this withdrawal is that the Dartmoor Railway has recently ceased activities, as many of you may know: apparently their owners have no wish to continue operating railway services. The next meeting of the WSRA Taunton Group is now to be on Monday June 2nd, when the excellent photographer Ed Hurst is due to give a talk entitled: 'Mainline Steam in Medium Format'. I hope to see many of you there, especially in view of recent good attendance at our meetings.

The next meeting of the GWS Taunton Group is scheduled to be on Friday May 16th, when Richard Morant is due to give an talk entitled: 'My Lifetime Hobby'.

Posted 5 May 2008

The 700 Club has gone from strength to strength, thanks largely to the hard work and commitment from the late Audrey Short. After many years as the 500 Club, and more recently as the 700 Club, the Association has decided to increase the number of participants to 1,000 and is re-launching the scheme under the name “The 1,000 Lottery Club”. » Further details...

Posted 19 April 2008

The latest issue of the West Somerset Railway » Journal (No 121 - Winter 2008) has been published and has over 70 pages full of news and views of the line many of which are in colour - why not guarantee your copy each quarter by becoming a member of the WSRA?

Posted 5 April 2008

It is with great sadness that we announce that long-standing Association volunteer Audrey Short has passed away at the age of 77 after a long and courageous battle with illness. Audrey's association with the West Somerset Railway started in 1976, working one day a week in the shop at the then terminus of the line, Blue Anchor, located in what is now the Great Western Railway Museum. Volunteer turns in various booking offices followed until, in 1984, Audrey and her husband, Ron, were persuaded to join the team of the Quantock Belle dining set, Audrey working first in the kitchen and later as a steward. In September 1987, Audrey was asked to consider becoming WSRA Treasurer, a post which she accepted and held for the next eleven and a half years, until retiring in April 1999. During this time, the Association's finances became infinitely more complicated and the WSRA made the transition to becoming a Registered Charity, completed in 1994. Audrey earned much respect in the role of Treasurer, and alsoserved as a Director on the Company Board as one of the three directors representing the Association. Audrey and Ron produced two volumes of "Walks from West Somerset Railway Stations" which were designed to encourage ramblers to make more use of the Railway and which have proved remarkably good sellers over the years. For most of its existence, Audrey presided over another long-running WSRA institution, the 500 Club, this attracting many members and going on to become the current 700 Club. Audrey continued in this role until just before her death, handing over the reigns to her successor, Ray Casely, in January. Away from the Railway, Audrey and Ron were keen bell-ringers, and Audrey was also a volunteer at the local hospice. Audrey's funeral was held on Wednesday 19th March at St.George's Church in Ruishton, just a few yards from her home of Poldens. The service was attended by many friends and colleagues. Known to many simply as "a lovely lady", Audrey will be sadly missed. Our sympathies are extended to her son Malcolm and his family at this time.

Posted 31 March 2008

Two new 'high flyers' have been appointed to the senior management team of the West Somerset Railway Association (WSRA), the volunteer supporter’s group on the 23-mile West Somerset Railway. The new WSRA Chairman is Robin White (44) who takes over the all-voluntary post from Humphrey Davies who has served as Chairman for the last 10 years. And the WSRA has also just appointed Susan Kaufman to the new and important salaried post of Association Manager based at Bishops Lydeard.

Posted 19 March 2008

Due to the planned speaker not being able to attend the next Taunton Group meeting on Monday 3 March will have a surprise element, there will either be Don Bishop giving a presentation "Digital Steam Recreations" or Peter Darke's talk "Roaming Northern Rails" - either way it will be worth attending at 7.30pm in the GWRSA beside Taunton Station.

Posted 2 March 2008

The latest issue of the West Somerset Railway » Journal (No 120 - Autumn 2007) has now been published and is as always full of news and views of recent events on the line together with a variety of features and articles. It runs to 80 pages with plenty of photographs, many in colour - why not guarantee your copy each quarter by becoming a member of the WSRA?

Posted 3 January 2008