08-07-2012

As most years there was an incoming charter from the big railway, this year it was formed of the "Pride of the Nation" dining train hauled by EWS Class 66 diesel 66226, seen here running on to the WSR at Norton Fitzwarren.  Photo Mike Rowland

There was a slight delay waiting line clear at Crowcombe Heathfield where the 66 looked a bit out of place in such a lovely old country station.

Two views of 66226 in the sidings at Minehead, a bit different from our usual heritage motive power!

The Class 117 DMU leaving Minehead for Williton about to collect the token as it passes 66226.  The special had come from Paddington, the DMU's old "stamping ground".

Two shots of 2-8-0T 5224 leaving Minehead and collecting the token for the single line.

Two views of small prairie 5542 arriving at Minehead with her 75th. Anniversary Special.

The fireman of 5542 about to hand over the token to the youthful signalman.

5542 running round her train.  She had been away to the Bodmin & Wenford Railway and will shortly be visiting the East Somerset Railway, in between she is facing Minehead instead of Bishops Lydeard as normal.

A view of her 75th. Anniversary headboard.

Member of 5542's restoration team and WSR driver Trevor Barnet on 5542's footplate.

WSR and CAMRA volunteer Barrie looking rather less formal than he does when working on the Quantock Belle!!