Taunton to Minehead (WSR)

Taunton to Minehead
West Somerset Railway

We are extremely grateful to Chris Osment for the considerable input which he has provided. Chris is a volunteer signalman on the wonderful West Somerset Railway. Many thanks also to Craig Munday, Mike Roach the late John Cornelius and Roger Winnen who have also provided contributions.

A rough sketch map of the Minehead branch (West Somerset Railway and the Norton Triangles

Reference has been made to 'The Atlas of the Great Western 1947 by Tony Cooke' and other publications.

WSR Preservation history

1973Freehold bought by Somerset County Council
1975Light Railway Order granted
Minehead to Blue Anchor opened 28th March 1976
and services extended to Williton on 28th August the same year.
1979Re-opened to Bishops Lydeard
1987New station at Doniford
2009New station at Norton Fitzwarren
2020 After a lengthy shut down the WSR reopened with Santa specials on the 12th December 2020.

During the summer of 2007 the 'Butlins Express' ran providing a through service to Minehead. A 'Taster' for an article on this one summer only service by Brian Pibworth is provided below - Click here for the relevant Features Section (1802) read the story and see all of the pictures of this historic event.

A dramatic photograph by Brian Pibworth as a Butlins Holiday Express leave the main line at Norton Fitzwarren and heads for Minehead. 28th July 2007. Copyright

The Last Train to Minehead.
Looking Back - Andrew Jones who rode the last B.R. Train remembers the event.

Dear Keith and Valerie,
What a turbulent time for our railways! Railways re opening after extended closure, some like the Llangothlen Railway dealt a fatal blow after many years fighting to reach Corwen and may even be forced into total closure once again. Okehampton re joining the national network. The 800 series Hitachi revisiting metal fatigue problems, reminiscent of those dark days surrounding the de havilland Comet.
When I travelled on the last train to Minehead in 1971 all those years ago, I didn’t think things could get much worse, although the events on that night bordered on the antics of the Titfield Thunderbolt.
Why last trains always had a carnival atmosphere, escaped me at the time as the booked 21.30 actually left Taunton at 21.10 strengthened to nine coaches, with a traditional cacophony of detonators which must have reminded local residents of world war 11. It sounded like someone had raided the entire signal departments supply. The guard had managed to control the passengers for a few miles, but Crowcombe station signalled the start of blasts from the DMU horns which even with warnings that he would terminate the train continued all the way to Minehead.
Railway employees contrary to popular belief are not all enthusiasts but even the most ardent guard had to give up in the end.
We were not the only revellers that night as the local round table had chartered an earlier train leaving Minehead at 20.25.
The return trip was even more eventful, our booked departure from Minehead was 22.10 but in reality by the time the brass band had played and various delaying tactics hatched on the way up enacted , the train finally departed at 22.30.
Again no one slept in Minehead that night!
By Dunster a group of railway terrorists had occupied the rear driving compartment and were busily applying the brakes at every opportunity.
However by Stogumber the band had manged to slow the journey to a crawl by insisting on playing at every station edged on by the partying passengers. It was only when we reached Crowcombe that it was realised that the band had been left at Stogumber by mistake.
So the train was reversed back to collect them.
Everyone arrived back at Taunton thankfully in one piece ending an amazing trip, which these days would have probably ended in some government enquiry.
I can remember walking home and glancing at the town clock which had just chimed 1 o’clock. If anyone tells you the last train ran to Minehead on the 2nd of January 1971, think again for we arrived back on the 3rd of January!
I have attached a last day cover and my precious last ticket.

Very best wishes to everyone and be careful.

Andrew and Diane

The last day cover - from the Andrew Jones Collection

The last day ticket from the Andrew Jones Collection.

Many thanks to you Andrew for your record of a very memorable journey. Thank heavens we can still travel the line.

Taunton

Minehead branch summer timetable 1962 From the Mike Roach collection

Taunton, the bay platform often used by trains serving the Minehead branch. 14th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

Norton Fitzwarren 2 miles from Taunton

Norton Platform 2 3/4 miles from Taunton

Reference Wikipedia On 24th March 2004, the WSRA announced the purchase of 33 acres of land at Norton Fitzwarren. The triangular piece of land is located between: the existing WSR line from Allerford bridge (B3227) south to the junction with Network Rail; the westward running residual trackbed of the Barnstaple branch from Network Rail junction to the first lane crossing the former trackbed in the west. The purchase of the land was announced as the first step in a 20-year programme to create a new train turning facility, alongside a national-scale "Heritage Railway Development" encompassing: an engine shed; carriage works; and railway engineering facility.

Planning permission was granted by Somerset County Council and a drainage plane approved by the Environment Agency. An agreement was made with Network Rail to utiles spent ballast and rail from NR's upgrade programme with NR trains operating to and from Fairwater Yard. A triangular layout has been established with an inner chord to turn trains before the junction with Network Rail.

At the Bishops Lydeard end of the triangle lies Allerford Junction, and just beyond this the WSR have created a new four coach station called Norton Platform.

The two pictures below, by Chris Osment, were taken on 23 March 2013, when the Railmotor was on the WSR. It was the “Spring” Gala, hence the dismal weather – it was s-o-o cold that the batteries in the camera gave up much of the time!

A view at Norton Platform, looking towards Taunton with the Railmotor Number 93. Copyright Chris Osment

Norton Platform on the occasion of the West Somerset Railway Steam Gala on the 23rd March 2013. This view is taken looking towards Bishops Lydeard with an engine on the triangle waiting to change-over with the next train, Note the ballast heaps behind it. Copyright Chris Osment

When was the platform opened? I am advised that the platform was approved by the ORR on 17 July 2009 and first used by passengers during the subsequent Steam Fayre and Vintage Vehicle Rally on 1 and 2 August 2009. There does not appear to have been any formal commissioning or opening date, and I believe even the name ‘Norton Platform’ is still informal. Chris

Here are 3 pictures taken today 22nd June 2018 of the new siding on the back of Norton Platform. One is the nice refurbished buffet stop, one of the WSR’s road railer, and a general view up the siding looking towards Bishops Lydeard. This siding should see action during the Steam & Vintage Rally, held here on the 5th & 6th August this year, to display some of the Vintage Stock, including the GWR Sleeping Car and the ex Taunton Inspectors Saloon Cheers Rob

Norton siding 22nd June 2018 Copyright Rob Lindley

Norton Fitzwarren Its 11.57 on the 3rd August 2019. The service on the Taunton to Bishops Lydeard making a special stop at Norton Platform on the occasion of a Vintage Vehicle Event being staged on the triangle. Copyright Robert Lindley -- Thought you would like a shot of the Summer Saturdays only Taunton - Bishops Lydeard shuttle. This has a service of 5 trains each way. Today only, stopping at Norton Fitzwarren Station for the annual Steam and Vintage Vehicle Rally.

Taken on 21st March 2009 from a WSR DMU ‘gala shuttle’ passing Allerford Junction GF and approaching Norton Bridge (bridge No 1), just north of Norton platform. Copyright Chris Osment

Note from Chris Osment. The pictures below were, all taken on 9th August 2010, show an HOBC (High Output Ballast Cleaner) train arriving from Fairwater Yard, running up past Allerford Jcn, and then reversing onto the triangle ready to discharge. [At that time the trains had an engine at each end and returned to Taunton by the same route. However, since completion of the triangle and the addition of ‘Barnstaple Jcn’ at the ‘apex’ nearest to the NR access, AIUI the HOBC now comes with one engine only and the train traverses the whole triangle in order to ‘change direction’.

66556 arriving from Fairwater Yard having passed Norton Platform. 9th August 2010 Copyright Chris Osment

The rear of the train now becomes the front as 66 620 takes charge, a member of the train crew has cleared changing the points with control and the train is ready to move. 9th August 2010 Copyright Chris Osment

The train rolls forward towards Norton Bridge. 9th August 2010 Copyright Chris Osment

66 620 takes the load of spent ballast on to the discharge point. 9th August 2010. Copyright Chris Osment

Two more Norton pictures taken in 2016 by Robert Lindley. Robert writes :- Thought you would like to see the "big railway" using the turning triangle at Norton Fitzwarren on the WSR. This is not an uncommon operation as the train is based at Fairwater Yard, Taunton about a mile up the track. The first photo shows the train rounding the west cord of the triangle topped and tailed by class 66's. The second photo shows the rear of the train, heading away from me to rejoin the WSR main line. This happened about 3pm on the 26th Feb.

66546 at one end of the train at Norton Triangle 26th February 2016 Copyright Robert Lindley

66536 on the other end of the train at Norton Triangle 26th February 2016 Copyright Robert Lindley

Norton Fitzwarren HOBC train 26 wagons delivering spent ballast. 9th July 2018 Copyright Rob Lindley

Bishops Lydeard 5 miles from Taunton

Bishops Lydeard 2nd August 2006 Copyright Chris Osment

Bishops Lydeard Lever frame 2nd August 2006 Copyright Chris Osment

Bishops Lydeard Track Diagram 2nd August 2006 Copyright Chris Osment

Bishops Lydeard in May 1976 Copyright Ron Kosys

Its the occasion of a CRS visit to the West Somerset Railway on the 6th September 1980 Copyright Roger Winnen

800906d The Park Royal unit carries the Cornwall Railway Society crest. Copyright Roger Winnen

The crew at Bishops Lydeard, the late Donald Beale former driver on the S & D is standing on the left. . 13th September 1980 Copyright Roger Winnen

5542 is a GWR 4575 Class 2-6-2T "small prairie" tank engine which was built in 1928 and withdrawn by British Railways in December 1961, she spent the next fourteen years in a scrapyard before being acquired for preservation. After many years of hard work restoring her she entered traffic on the West Somerset Railway in autumn 2002, she has since moved to work on a number of other heritage lines . Copyright John Cornelius

Bishops Lydeard 31st May 1976 Copyright Ron Kosys (Ron wonders if the wheelbarrow saw any further service?)

Bishops Lydeard 31st May 1976 Copyright Ron Kosys

Standing in the sidings at Bishops Lydeard on the 6th September 1980 is 5521 a 2-6-2 Prairie Tank in obvious need of restoration. Copyright Roger Winnen

On the occasion of the 2013 West Somerset Railway Spring Gala Railmotor Number 93 departs in the Taunton direction in order to run into the siding and thus clear the platform line for another train. 23rd March 2013 Copyright Chris Osment.

Crowds at Bishops Lydeard. 13th September 1987 Copyright Roger Winnen

Departure from Bishops Lydeard heading for Crowcombe Heathfield 13th September 1987 Copyright Roger Winnen

The Auto arriving at Bishops Lydeard 27th October 2007 Copyright Chris Osment

A smashing view as D1015 Western Champion passes through heading north on the 31st August 2013. Copyright Chris Osment

Bishops Lydford South end - still a winters day, but good light 25th March 2011 Copyright Chris Osment

Bishops Lydford South end. The 08 remains hidden 5558 in the sidings to the right 4160 beside it. 5th August 2011 Copyright Chris Osment

Bishops Lydford SR N15 class 30777 Sir Lamiel. Viewed from next to Station Masters house 25th March 2011 Copyright Chris Osment

We are at the Taunton end of the platform. Most people seem to be turning their backs on Sid at Bishops Lydeard on the 10th September 2005 but nevertheless we get an interesting view of miscellaneous railway equipment against a distant background of the Blackdown Hills. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

An undignified departure from Bishops Lydeard. Copyright John Cornelius

Looking around Bishops Lydford with Chris Osment.

As a not too frequent visitor to the WSR, I'd asked for views of what lies at the back of the main station building and along the approach road. Chris replies " Hope these satisfy your curiosity!"
The ‘cottages’ are in the bend of the approach road on the down side. As they were built for the railway I am /assuming/ they were for staff purposes, though AFAIK now they are in private hands. I believe the SM’s house is also private, certainly not WSR use at the moment. The ‘T M R G’ building is a WSR-era structure built to infill the space between the station building and the good shed and houses the Taunton Model Railway Group.

Bishops Lydeard Goods shed front on the 27th August 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

Bishops Lydeard Goods shed rear on the 20th June 2009 Copyright Chris Osment (Everything nice and clean and tidy)

Bishops Lydeard Station building on the down platform on the 27th August 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

Bishops Lydeard Station building rear view 1 on the 12th July 2013 Copyright Chris Osment

Bishops Lydeard Station building rear view 2 18th June 2010 Copyright Chris Osment

Bishops Lydeard Taunton Model Railway Group Building is sandwiched between the down side station building and the goods shed. Seen on the 2nd June 2009 Copyright Chris Osment

The very attractive Bishops Lydeard Stationmaster's house is right alongside the line - he could be at his place of work, anytime during the day, or night!! 31st August 2013

Another view this time of the front elevation, facing south. 27th August 2014. Copyright Chris Osment

Bishops Lydeard Station cottages as seen on the 2nd July 2013 Copyright Chris Osment

One last look around - the very well equipped Gauge Museum

Bishops Lydeard - inside the well equipped Gauge Museum 27th August 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

Bishops Lydford Gauge Museum GWR Sleeping Car 2nd July 2013 Copyright Chris Osment

Newly built at Bishops Lydeard is the Two road ash shelter. 26th February 2016 Copyright Robert Lindley

Steam and power a plenty at Bishops Lydeard. Copyright John Cornelius

Flying Scotsman 2 Bishops Lydeard 5th September 2017 Copyright Roger Aston

Crowcombe Heathfield 9 miles from Taunton

Crowcombe Heathfield Signal Box 29th March 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

Crowcombe Heathfield The lever frame 1st September 2013

Crowcombe Heathfield Signal Box The track diagram 27th October 2007 Copyright Chris Osment

Crowcombe Heathfield, A poster on the wall advertises Clevedon alas no longer accessible by rail. 2nd July 2013 Copyright Chris Osment

Crowcombe Heathfield, another front view, the centre poster advertises Lynton and Lynmouth. The young mother has the task of managing two small bikes as the children make their way along the platform 29th March 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

Crowcombe Heathfield Bookshelves occupy platform space by the departures board. 3rd October 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

An often forgotten item of Crowcombe Heathfield is the Lamp Hut. Seen here on the 29th March 2014. It looks as if the plant sprouting from a redundant chimney pot is about to be refreshed as a young cyclist is witnessing, one wonders what the conversation is? Note the smart fire buckets hanging from the rest. Copyright Chris Osment

As part of his detailed survey of the current Crowcombe Heathfield Chris writes :- Apart from the ‘Lamp Hut’ on the Up platform at Crowcombe near the station building, there is another, larger hut a bit further along towards Taunton, but set higher up at the top of the embankment by the access road. This is used for storing gardening equipment etc.

I have been advised now that neither hut is a CH ‘original’. The origin of the Lamp Hut is unknown, but is believed to have been recovered by WSR Association volunteers from somewhere in the Bristol area. The other (larger) hut apparently used to be the Goods Office at Flax Bourton.

Everything in 'Apple Pie order at Crowcombe Heathfield the bluebells still out. The approach road lies behind the Large Hut 23rd May 2013 Copyright Chris Osment

Crowcombe Heathfield Large Hut - daffodils out in this sun lit view. Not the enameled notices on the hut. 21st March 2009 Copyright Chris Osment

Crowcombe Heathfield the rear view of the up platform building 13th Oct 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

Crowcombe Heathfield Down shelter on the 3rd of August 2013 Just like the up building this shelter is in an immaculate state of repair. It is well provided with milk churns, a seat and litter box. Lurking to the right in shadows is a delivery bicycle complete with front basket and steadying legs. To the left a platform trolley loaded with various leather bags sits waiting for the next service down the line. Copyright Chris Osment

3rd October 2013 was indeed a pleasant day as can be seen from this picture looking towards Stogumber, obviously trains are not to be long coming in both directions. The station staff chatter. From the direction everybody is looking it is likely that the sound of an approaching train from Stogumber has been heard and they all wait in anticipation although the boards have not been pulled off yet. Copyright Chris Osment

Crowcombe Heathfield a charming view by Chris Osment of Prairie 5542 maybe just stopped or about to leave, the board is off for the locomotive to proceed towards Stogumber. Copyright.

Stogumber 11 3/4 miles from Taunton

Many thanks to Chris Osment for this quite detailed look at a quiet country station.

Stogumber Station on the 9th August 2010, a general view from the Bishops Lydeard end. The station is unusual in that the main building, due to site constraints has to be on the opposite side of the line to the platform. Had goods facilities not been provided there would have been room for a platform on the up side of the line, but that was not to be. Goods facilities withdrawn in August 1963. There is a pedestrian access over the line from the Booking Office and car park by means of a board crossing. Further access is possible from the down side and the village by means of a steep footpath. Copyright Chris Osment

Stogumber Building 23rd May 2010 Copyright Chris Osment

A glimpse of Stogumber Station building on 6th September 1980 Copyright Roger Winnen A chance to compare 'before' with 'after'. This picture gives an idea of the extensive 'tidying up' which has been done at the station in preservation.

Stogumber Building 31st March 2012 The flags are out for some reason or other, very smart. The traditional phone box alongside the south elevation makes a nice picture. Copyright Chris Osment

Almost exactly two years on and little has changed in this view, the tree is a little larger and a noticeboard and the sign over the doorway have been removed. Stogumber station building. This is on 29th March 2014 Stogumber station has also been renamed - the name changed to Portsmouth Arms for the 2014 'Withered Arm 'Spring Gala'. Copyright Chris Osment

Stogumber Building 27th October 2007 Copyright Chris Osment

Stogumber Building north end 3rd October 2009 Copyright Chris Osment

Time for tea and a chat! The flags are out again and there are now three fire buckets. Stogumber building north end 31st March 2012 Copyright Chris Osment

Stogumber station building rear. 2nd July 2013 Copyright Chris Osment

A view from a train of the attractive station garden at Stogumber on the 23rd May 2013. Very pleasant with seating to watch the trains and time go by. We are looking north. Copyright Chris Osment

Now a view of Stogumber Garden looking south. A lady enjoys a snack whilst, perhaps her husband, patrols the platform camera at the ready. These gardens are on the site of the former goods shed which was demolished by B.R. This picture 29th March 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

South of the station, at the Taunton end, lies the cattle dock seen here looking quite pleasant on the 27th October 2007. The milepost has been nicely repainted. Also nearby was the site of a Goods Store. Friends of SR (Stogumber) are keen to rebuild the store, repair the cattle dock presently in a state of re-build, and perhaps install a short length of track compete with a restored wagon or two to create the 'old atmosphere'. Copyright Chris Osment

Seen from the station garden is Stogumber station platform complete with the new Waiting Room. The platform has rotted, been replaced and shortened at various times. Seen here on the 31st March 2012 and doesn't it look smart? The platform trolley is loaded with an assortment of trunks and cases. Copyright Chris Osment

Having crossed the running line by means of the level crossing we get a pedestrian view along the platform at Stogumber Station. Before the new waiting shelter milk churns await collection. The scene on the 29th March 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

And finally a photograph of the new Waiting Room showing its construction on a rather difficult embankment slope. There is a handy store below. 9th August 2010 Copyright Chris Osment

S and D 53808 departing Stogumber with an up train to Bishops Lydeard. Sunday 11th February 2018 Copyright Rob Lindley

The end of a good days work by the Cutting Back gang. Esential work which rarely receives the praise it deserves. Sunday 11th February 2018 Copyright Rob Lindley

Williton 15 miles from Taunton

D7017 hauls its first train into Williton, now its home for 40 years. 19th March 1977. Copyright Neil Phillips

D7017 runs around at Williton 17th March 2017

Williton in its dying days as a BR station seen here in late December 1970 Copyright Andrew Jones

Williton Station from the back of the Park Royal unit bound for Bishops Lydeard. 6th September 80 Copyright Roger Winnen N.B. The other Park Royal DMU is already signalled out of Williton towards Minehead.

Collapsed culvert at Williton.
Back in the 1960's BR experienced trouble with collapsed culvert just the Bishops Lydeard side of Williton station. Rather than repair the culvert, and as the line was likely to close anyway, they shortened the up loop thus singling the line over the culvert. The following two pictures from Derek Buttivant taken in September 2015 clearly show the alignment and the collapsed culvert. Many thanks to Derek

WILLITON Summer 1969. Copyright The Late John Vines Courtesy Andrew Vines

Williton Culvert 1 West Somerset September 2015 Copyright Derek Buttivan

Williton Culvert 2 West Somerset September 2015 Copyright Derek Buttivant

Major engineering works - lenthening to loop at Williton to increase the effective length of the up platform which had been shortened in BR Days. 26th January 2016 Copyright Rob Lindley Note - Chris Osment also advises that the facing point on the down main by the signalbox has been replaced by plain track.

Robert Lindley writes Extension of the loop at Williton. The WSR has decided to re-instate the full length of the loop at Williton, so trains have use of the full length of the platform (needed in peak season). This was shortened in the early 1960’s when the culvert bridge needed replacing, so BR in their wisdom only replaced one side.
The old points position can be seen just behind the mini digger. The new bridge girders for the lengthened loop can be seen over the culvert, but not yet in the final position. The level crossing had to be completely dug up, tracks relayed and re-tarmacked. The “home” signal, the post of which can be seen centrally under the bridge, has also been moved further out, with the up starter, at present about 2 coach lengths down the platform, yet to be moved. Robert Lindley - Many thanks for the picture and information Rob

Chris Osment kindly adds the following additional information. Re the photo and comments about the work at Williton. This is a complex project which has had to be done in a number of stages during the relatively short winter periods without scheduled services.

The existing Up Starting signal (No 4) will NOT be moved, instead an additional Starting signal (No 5) will be added just in rear of the new trap points. Apart from the actual loop extension, there is much additional signalling work to be done, which will include an extensive re-locking of the lever-frame and a new instrument shelf in the signal-box. This work will be completed during the 2106/17 winter period and the complete new layout will be implemented next year. Although there will be a longer loop during 2016, that is probably all that will be noticeable to causal observers for the time being. Regards Chris
Many thanks for this additional information Chris.

Williton on the 21st February 2016 - this winters work completed, an excellent job well done. Copyright Robert Lindley

From Rob Lindley 21st February 2016 Hi Keith, Please find attached a picture of the finished culvert and extended loop at Williton on the WSR as promised. The new works being the left hand side. You can see the remains of the original point which marks the start of the old loop on the right hand track. For the first time since the 60's up trains can use the full length of the platform. Cheers Rob Lindley Many thanks Rob

The very latest picture of the work at Williton taken on 28th February 2016. The original loop point has been removed and replaced by plain track. Note also the new culvert. Copyright Robert Lindley

7828 Odney Manor at Williton station next day 19th May 2016, on 15.11 to Minehead. The extended loop at Williton was receiving attention from the signalling dept. Copyright Andrew Jones The new formation some two months old already looking, less new!!

Williton in September 1970. The up line is soon to be extended back to its original alignment alongside the platform. Copyright Mike Roach. Not quite sure of the date of the statement in this caption but you certainly can see the need for the new works.

Williton Signal Box. One of only two signal boxes still in use that once signalled broad gauge trains (the other is Par box). 9th May 2007 Copyright Chris Osment

Williton Lever Frame 9th May 2007 Copyright Chris Osment

Williton Signal Box Track diagram 11th June 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

Williton Signalbox in September 1970 Copyright Mike Roach

Williton Station sign. 3rd September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Looking towards Minehead, a new foot bridge in its nearly complete state spans gap between the up platform, on the right and the down platform with the station buildings on the left. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

The two Park Royal sets at Williton on the 6th September 1980 Copyright Roger Winnen We're proudly displaying our headboard on this service to Minehead.

This picture taken from a train leaving from Williton from what is the up platform in the down direction in the early days clearly shows the extent of the station layout on the 3rd September 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Hymeck 7017 sits in the yard as 5572 waits for the signal to drop to allow her to leave the station. 13tg September 1987. Copyright Roger Winnen

53808 On the Pines Express at Williton about to take water. 13th September 1987 Copyright Roger Winnen

A 'Teddy Bear' in Williton Yard 13th September 1987 Copyright Roger Winnen

The approach to Williton from the Minehead direction looking towards Bishops Lydeard.The date is 6th September 1980. A DMU stands at the down platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

13th September 1987 the yard at Williton is filling up. Williton Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

Williton Shed. Looking immaculate Class 33 D6575. This had been fire damaged but is seen here freshly restored for traffic in the Autumn Gala in September 2011 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Williton shed. Again looking superb D832 Onslaught Warship On loan from the Bury Diesel Group of the East Lancs Railway ELR Autumn Gala September 2011 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

S & D loco 53808 rounding the curve down grade towards Williton from the Doniford Halt direction. It is 13th September 1980. Copyright Roger Winnen

Flying Scotsman arrives at Williton on the 5th September 2017 Copyright Roger Aston

A smashing action shot by John Cornelius. Copyright

Doniford Halt Built in 1988 using platform sections from Montacute and the pagoda hut from Cove.

Doniford Halt pictured on the 4th July 2013 Looks grand doesn't it - just like a model. Copyright Chris Osment

Doniford Halt 14th July 2011, an earlier and lower level picture by Chris Osment Copyright

Doniford Halt (near) 30th July 2013 Copyright Craig Munday

A quick glimpse of the coastline at Helwell Bay. About 200 yards from Doniford Halt. On the 3rd September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Watchett 16 3/4 miles from Taunton

5572 Departing Watchet with a demonstration freight. On 13th September 1987 Copyright Roger Winnen

Watchet Station Buildings on the 13th September 1987 . Copyright Roger Winnen

Watchet station on 13th September 1987. Copyright Roger Winnen

A smashing 'constructional details view of Watchet station taken during October 2006 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

By way of comparison we go back to this view from the Mike Morant Collection. Mike adds that he received the following comments from a Railwest viewer. :- Sidings still in situ though little used. What is interesting is that there is no sign of the West Ground Frame nor of the facing point lock or of any rodding to the yard exit point. Freight traffic ceased in July 1964 and the sidings were lifted soon after. This fact dates this picture to being between closure and lifting - about 1965. Just visible on the letf hand side is the ex B&ER signal box closed in 1926 and used for staff/storage purposes thereafter. It was essentially 3-storey, but the top floor was removed (and the roof lowered in 1961, it was demolished probably in 1967.

It's the 3rd September 1978 Watchet Station on return run to Minehead. Copyright Roger Winnen

Watchet a working harbour. Offloading timber in Watchet Harbour. 13th September 1987 Copyright Roger Winnen

This certainly is proof that Watchet was a working port in 1980. Now a yachting marina. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Pines Express arrives Watchet as timber is being moved from the docks. 13th September 1987 Copyright Roger Winnen

13th September 1987 A DMU departure from Watchet to Minehead. Copyright Roger Winnen

Between Watchet and Washford. With reference to the views below Chris Osment advises - I confess I had to "ask a friend" , but the answer is that they are near Kentsford crossing (between Watchet and Washford). In which case, the view is looking south-ish from the high ground north of the line, so it is a Down train in both cases.

A class 47 handles a demonstration freight on the Minehead branch 30th July 2013 Copyright Craig Munday

A DMU drag on the Minehead branch 30th July 2013 Copyright Craig Munday

Washford 19 miles from Taunton

Washford Station looking towards Minehead. on the 3rd September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

The Exterior of Washford Station on the 3rd September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen.

Washford station, under the awning. 3rd September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Washford station during the Somerset and Dorset weekend 25th March 2006 Copyright Sid Sponheimer. The ‘hut on the left’ is in fact the structure of the old GWR Washford Signalbox still in situ, but it now houses a representation of the interior of the former S&DJR Midford box. The ‘small items’ part of the S & D R T’s museum collection is housed in the former waiting room in the main station building, whilst larger items are in various buildings and wagons etc in the yard. Thanks to Chris Osment for this information.

Another view of the re-instated yard at Washford on the occasion of the West Somerset Railway S & D weekend 25th March 2006 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

A splash of colour at Washford. Copyright John Cornelius

3rd September 1978 2994 Vulcan heads a train into Washford Station for Minehead. Copyright Roger Winnen

A class 33 heads through Washford towards Minehead on the 30th July 2013 Copyright Craig Munday

Somerset & Dorset 7F 53808 in its early days of restoration at Washford. 3rd September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Former GWR Dinner at Washford. Copyright Roger Winnen. 13th September 1987

Sleeping in the sidings at Washford. LMS Sleeping Car at Washford. 6th September 1980 Copyright Roger Winnen.

Blue Anchor 21 1/4 miles from Taunton

Background Notes on Blue Anchor kindly supplied by Chris Osment

The original 1874 station was a single platform on the Up side of the single-line, but in 1904 a passing-loop and Down platform were added. At the west end of the station there is a level-crossing with four gates, which are now the only such set in the West Country still worked by a wheel in the signal-box. To the west of the level-crossing a small goods yard with one siding was opened in 1913, but this was closed in 1963. The siding was removed prior to the re-opening of the line by the WSR, but there is now a short length of unconnected track which is home to three camping coaches. The current signal-box was opened in 1904 as a replacement for a smaller structure on the same site and is equipped with a 17-lever frame with GWR ‘stud’ locking; this is now the only ‘stud’ lever-frame in the UK still operational in its original signal-box on its original site.

At the Taunton end of the loop the facing point is unusual in that it lies ‘normal’ for the right-hand (Up) line, rather than the left-hand (Down) line, and there is also a sprung trailing catch-point at the exit from the Up loop. This arrangement is a hang-over from the days of ‘unfitted’ freight trains and ensured that any runaway wagon down the gradient from Washford would be derailed at the catch-point rather than pass along the Down loop and potentially crash the level-crossing gates. In recent years the facing point was converted to motor operation, as the old mechanical rodding was becoming troublesome and in any case the point was beyond the permitted distance for mechanical operation. The facing point at the Minehead end is still operated mechanically and its Facing Point Lock is now the only one on the WSR still protected by a mechanical ‘lock bar’ rather than an electrical track-circuit.

The brick-built station building is the original 1874 structure, although with some later alterations. To the east of this there is a wooden waiting shelter which is a WSR-era replacement for an earlier shelter which had fallen into disrepair. Next along the Up platform is a brick-built ladies toilet believed to have been built in 1904, with an odd-shaped angled rear wall necessary to clear the railway boundary fence. On the Down platform is a 1904 brick-built waiting shelter, which now houses the Blue Anchor Railway Museum. Also on that platform close to the level-crossing is a GWR corrugated-iron goods lock-up shed provided circa-1912, whilst at the entrance to the old goods yard there is a typical GWR corrugated-iron lamp-hut.

Further information on Blue Anchor
kindly supplied by Rob Lindley
The original wooden waiting shelter had to be taken down before the line re-opened as it was too far gone to repair. The new replacement was erected in the mid 1980’s – I know as I built it! The Goods lock-up is a replacement for the original that was removed by BR. I can’t remember where it came from, but was recovered by the WSRA. The lamp hut on the other side of the level crossing is original. The main station building has always been thought of as an adaption of an original building, as about 4 inches underneath the traditional wooden floor is a stone flag floor. This was discovered when inserting the ticket barrier at the booking office window! Also, the cost of the building at Blue Anchor is considerably less than Dunster & Washford when built. The building style is also completely different. The Station lighting was installed in the late 80’s, using original cast iron lamp posts, sourced from many sites. These replaced the 1930’s large concrete posts that would have had tilly lamps wound up and down. The reinforcing within the concrete was corroding from the effects of the salt air and were in danger of collapsing. The lamp tops are new replicas, all electric and can be switched on from the Signal Box.

Blue Anchor early summer 1969. Looking towards Dunster . A rake of camping coaches sits in the siding. Copyright The late John Vines, courtesy Andrew Vines.

Blue Anchor in the summer of 1969. Copyright The late John Vines Courtesy Andrew Vines.

Blue Anchor A Hymeck approaches with an up service from Minehead 25th October 2009 Copyright Chris Osment

We are most grateful to John Cornelius for this last day of the Minehead branch photograph, many present to witness this sad occasion. Copyright John Cornelius.

Bagnall 'Victor' at Blue Anchor 31st May 1976 Copyright Ron Kosys

The approach to Blue Anchor Station. 6th September 1980 Copyright Roger Winnen.

Seaward of Blue Anchor station lies this caravan site, what a bonus for the enthusiast! 27th March 2011 Chris Osment

A 'Teddy Bear' heads a demonstration freight through Blue Anchor on the 25th October 2009 Copyright Chris Osment

Blue Anchor station sign and gardens on up platform 9th May 2007 Copyright Chris Osment

Blue Anchor Up platform sign and gardens on the 9th May 2007 The down platform building just visible. Copyright Chris Osment

Blue Anchor A view from the east end of the down platform. 20th March 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

Blue Anchor Looking west from above the down platform. 22nd March 2009 Copyright Chris Osment

Blue Anchor The Ladies room 14th July 2011 Copyright Chris Osment

Blue Anchor Replacement Shelter on the up side seen on the 14th July 2009 Copyright Chris Osment

Blue Anchor sign. October 1970. Copyright Mike Roach

Blue Anchor Inner home, downside 20th June 2009 Copyright Chris Osment

Note from Rob Lindley
The original wooden waiting shelter at Blue Anchor had to be taken down before the line re-opened as it was too far gone to repair. The new replacement was erected in the mid 1980’s – I know as I built it! Smashing job - well done.

Blue Anchor Down Shelter 4th July 2013 Nicely signed. Copyright Chris Osment

Blue Anchor The down platform building houses a very nice museum. 10th August 2010

Blue Anchor The Down Shelter 9th May 2007 Copyright Chris Osment

Blue Anchor Signalbox examined

Blue Anchor Signal Box viewed on the 10th August 2010. Copyright Chris Osment

Blue Anchor signalbox 1st September 2013 Copyright Chris Osment

Blue Anchor, under the floor - the locking frame 4th October 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

Views from the signalbox at Blue Anchor

West Somerset Railway Autumn Gala October 2007 . A charming picture of the Terrier entering Blue Anchor with a service from Minehead. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

An evening shot of Blue Anchor signal box from the crossing gates.

Blue Anchor View of back of box and station building on the 20th June 2009 Although there was a public entrance from the road at the rear (you can see the steps, path and porch), this has not been used for a long time because of safety issues with traffic problems and the lack of a pavement on the ‘blind bend’ behind the station. The hedge in the picture has been removed recently and replaced by a new fence. Public access to the ticket office etc is via the Up platform. Copyright Chris Osment

Blue Anchor Signal Box in BR days. September 1970. Copyright Mike Roach

Blue Anchor in September 1970 as a DMU sets off for Minehead. Copyright Mike Roach

King by the sea - the headboard seems to have lost its way! Copyright John Cornelius

Lots of steam on a nice cold and bright March day. All eyes are turned. Copyright John Cornelius

A DMU from Blue Anchor heads towards Dunster. On the hill-top above and just to the left of the train can be seen Conygar Tower, a prominent feature of the local landscape. It's almost midsummers day 19th June 2010. Copyright Chris Osment

A nice blue sea as befits Blue Anchor. Taken at the West Somerset Railway Autumn Gala October 2007 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

The same day as above 13th September - a DMU arrives from Minehead bearing a destination not to be reached for some years. Copyright Roger Winnen

Its the 13th September 1987. A special celebrating 125 years Watchet-Taunton. Victor on the train at Blue Anchor. Copyright Roger Winnen

5542 heads the Quantock Belle away from Blue Anchor towards Minehead on the 25th October 2009 Copyright Chris Osment

4160 under a clear inner homes gets under way from Blue Anchor towards Minehead on the 19th June 2010. Copyright Chris Osment

Don't forget to read the detailed notes on Blue Anchor by Chris Osment and Robert Lindley at the beginning of this collection of pictures.

Sea Lane Crossing at Dunster (About 170 yards east of the east end of Dunster platform)

Dunster SL 25th March 2007, the old Sea Lane crossing-keeper’s cottage, in the SE corner of the crossing Copyright Chris Osment

Dunster 4th July 2013, a down train crosses Sea Lane crossing heading towards the station, note the new house replacing the old cottage Copyright Chris Osment

Dunster 23 miles from Taunton
Older pictures

A grand picture taken on what was a sad occasion - the last day. Lots of cameras in evidence - luckily John Cornelius had one too. Copyright John Cornelius

Dunster Signabox in 1970 Copyright Mike Roach

Light through the windows at Dunster Box in 1970. Copyright Mike Roach

Dunster October 1970 Copyright Mike Roach

BR Days in October 1970 as a rather motley looking DMU rolls in from Minehead. Copyright Mike Roach

Early days of the WSR at Dunster as Bagnall 'Victor' departs on the 31st May 1976 Copyright Ron Kosys Note the vacated goods shed, the loading gauge etc.

Early days of the WSR at Dunster as Bagnall 'Victor' departs on the 31st May 1976 Copyright Ron Kosys

Leaving Dunster on the 26th June 1976 heading for Minehead. Note the Ford Anglia crossing the crossing at Dunster Station. Copyright Roger Winnen

Third Class cheap return ticket from Minehead to Dunster dated 08 SEP 63 fifteen years after the Great Western was nationalised and became part of British Railways. From the Mike Roach collection

Seen on the 3rd September 1978. Not far from Dunster station the Yarn Market and on the hill the Castle. Copyright Roger Winnen

Dunster Very interesting and detailed background notes supplied by Chris Osment :-

There are two level-crossings at Dunster. The one at the east end is Sea Lane, on quite a busy road to the local beach. There was a crossing-keeper here, with a GF released from the SB. The one at the west end is now called Dunster West, on a minor road to just a few houses and a farm etc, with the gates locked by the SB. When the WSR took over, as they did not need a SB at Dunster and so, to avoid the need to man two LCs all the time, Sea Lane crossing became a AOCL (Automatic Open Crossing Locally-monitered, ie just road lights, no barriers) and the West crossing became just an Open crossing – ie warning signs only, no lights. The SB was moved to Minehead. The old crossing-keeper’s cottage at Sea Lane survived in private hands, but a few years ago it was demolished and replaced by a new house on virtually the same site. The original station building and goods shed survive in railway use. The WSR relayed the sidings and the yard is used by the PW department. The nearby stationmaster’s house also survives in private hands (not photographed). Although most WSR stations are now in GWR livery, Dunster has been kept largely (but not entirely) in the BR(WR) colour scheme. The line from Dunster to Minehead is dead straight and (almost) level) and those with very good eyesight can stand on the platform at DR and watch the steam rise as trains pull away from MD! The station also houses an old printing press which keeps the railway well-stocked with ‘proper’ Edmondson-like card tickets :-) The station is about a mile or so from Dunster village, but during the summer months there is often a free vintage bus shuttle service to take passengers to/from the village and castle.

Dunster
More recent pictures

A shot made all the more interesting by the railway paraphernalia to the left. Copyright John Cornelius

Dunster station building platform side on the 16th June 2011 Copyright Chris Osment

4612 on a service train pauses at Dunster while 4131 stands at the east end of the goods shed during a shunting demonstration on 4th October 2014 during the Autumn Gala. Copyright Chris Osment

Dunster 0654 30th March 2014, looking east from from the west end of the platform. Sea Lane Crossing is in the distance. The station renamed for the Spring Gala Copyright Chris Osment

Dunster 4th October 2014, looking west towards Minhead. An auto-train arrives on Gala shuttle Copyright Chris Osment

Dunster 30th March 2014, looking west along platform during Spring Gala. There is a slight change in the up gradient towards Sea lane Crossing, behind the photographer. Copyright Chris Osment

Delightful Dunster. Many thanks to John Cornelius. Copyright.

The Dunster Goods

Near Minehead

A fine sight and sound. Copyright John Cornelius

A powerful picture captured by John. Copyright John Cornelius

'Pretty as a picture' - this superb shot by John looks almost like a painting! Copyright.

A smashing springtime shot. Copyright John Cornelius

Very nice to see a freight train complete with two brake vans heading away from that familiar backdrop at Minehead. Copyright John Cornelius

Minehead level crossing

A delightful picture of rail versus road. Copyright John Cornelius

Minehead 24 3/4 miles from Taunton

We start with the signalbox.perhaps one of the most important parts of the station.

Minehead Signal Box (originally at Dunster - see Dunster notes) Pictured by Chris Osment 27th March 2011 Copyright

Now going back to the start of our collection we look at the station buildings in 1977.

Good morning Keith, your mention of hymeks on the Minehead branch,prompted me to look out the two pics enclosed,which is of D7029 at Minehead on 20-8-1970, the only two pics I have of it.
Having worked a morning stopping train down,it then worked a mid morning through train to London.
I travelled down and back to Taunton on this train,being the first time I had ever travelled over the branch to Minehead. But look at the desolation at Minehead station then,only a few months from closure and compare this pic with what is there today. The WSRLY have done wonders with the station
over the years, from a run down state when the line closed in January 1971, to the really vibrant and upbeat station it is today. enjoy the pics cheers JOHN C.

Many thanks to John Cornelius , Copyright

6412 at Minehead recently repainted 6412 has a bit of a polish...31st May 1976 Copyright Ron Kosys

Minehead Ex Austin Morris at Longbridge large Bagnall ‘Vulcan’ in the process of being restored 31st May 1976 Copyright Ron Kosys

Minehead Park Royal 2 car DMU in 100% ex BR condition. 31st May 1976 Copyright Ron Kosys

D7017 ready to depart Minehead on its inaugural run to Williton. 19th March 1977. Copyright Neil Phillips.

The level crossing over the railway at this point was constructed in the early 1990's for use by the A39 link road to the sea front. Copyright John Cornelius

An extremely interesting and detailed item on this signalbox by Kevin Weston can be obtained by clicking here :- http://www.signalbox.org/branches/kw/minehead.htm

Minehead in BR days. From the Mike Morant Collection

In the very early days of the West Somerset Railway. Bagnall 'Victor' at Minehead on the 31st May 1976 Copyright Ron Kosys

The exterior of the station 1977. Copyright Mike Roach

The station nameboard complete with a set of spare wheels. 1977 Copyright Mike Roach

The water tower awaiting service at Minehead in 1977. Copyright Mike Roach

A smaller Water Tower - a tap on Minehead Station. 26th June 1976 Copyright Roger Winnen

The preservation era Minehead 1977 Copyright Mike Roach

Our train in Platform 2 at Minehead. Its 6th September 1980 Copyright Roger Winnen

Possibly the second of the pair of Park Royal Units then on the WSR. This picture in the early 70's by the late Sid Sponheimer (Senior). Copyright

Early motive power stands awaiting duty at Minehead. Copyright the late Sid Sponheimer

A 'Teddy Bear' rests just inside the goods shed at Minehead. Its the early days of preservation. 1970's Copyright the late Sid Sponheimer (Senior)

Minehead- in the small shed at WSR autumn 2006 Gala 10th June 2005 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Good morning Keith, I wish the pic had been 7823, as it was my last manor which I saw at Aberystwyth in Aug 1961, but sadly was inside the shed,so I never got a pic. The pic of the loco is actually 7828,but what makes it look like 7823, is the smoke box door handle is at angle and partially covering the eight, thus giving the impression it is a three. hence the illusion,hope this answers your query. I'm really enjoying the web at present with all the multitude of items coming through. excellent. CHEERS JOHN C. Many thanks for the explanation and your picture John, I was confused.

Installation of the Turntable at Minehead.

A little bit of history This is a precis from the publication 'Return of the Minehead Turntable' - the full document is available on their website. The turntable was purchased from far off Pwllheli in 1974, the WSRA committee having agreed to undertake the cost and movement of the turntable over 300 miles. It is described as GWR 55 foot St. Blazey type on 1930 vintage - all the better reason for saving it!! The removal from Pwllheli Goods Yard was a two day operation, however all went well despite some nasty weather. At 2pm on 3rd April 1979 the turntable arrived at Minehead. Here are some pictures from the Chris Osment collection of the turntable at Minehead.

Some more information on the ex Pwllheli Turntable kindly supplied by Rob Lindley Before installation at Minehead, it was decided to lengthen the Turntable to take the biggest engines in preservation and was extended at each end. If you look at the “before” and “after” photos, you will see the table has grown from 9 sections to 11. The Turntable went away to a firm in Birmingham, I believe, to have the work done. As you can see a fantastic job was done, as it is very difficult to detect now!

In March 2006 the ex Pwllheli turntable was still in store at Minehead. Pictured on 23rd March 2006 by Chris Osment Copyright

Minehead TT2 The completed turntable showing the connecting metals. 2nd August 2008 Copyright Chris Osment

Minehead TT3 - detail of the turntable circular track and wheel together with the locking handle. Copyright Chris Osment

Minehead TT5 2-Aug-08 Copyright Chris Osment

Minehead TT7 Prairie 5553 sits on the table 25th October 2009 Copyright Chris Osment

Minehead TT9 7828 originally named Oldney Manor was renamed Norton Manor in 2011 honour of the local Marine Base near the West Somerset Railway. 4th October 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

Butlins Minehead

A flashback to October 1970 as the mighty Duchess and mini Terrier stand outside Butlins. Both have thankfully now entered preservation. Copyright Mike Roach

A view of the far side of the Duchess of Hamilton taken by the Sid Sponheimer

London Brighton & South Coast Railway Terrier Tank at Minehead rescued from the Butlins Holiday Camp. This picture 3rd September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen N.B. While we use the term 'rescued' from Butlins one must accept that had Butlins not 'rescued' the Terrier in the first place it could have well gone to the scrapmen!

Nearly 200 miles from Minehead, but here's the Terrier in its current home shed at Rolvenden. A picture by Sid Sponheimer - Copyright