THE West Somerset Railway – England
The West Somerset Railway (WSR) is a heritage railway that runs along the edge of the Quantock Hills in Somerset, England, between Bishops Lydeard and Watchet, and then along the coast to Minehead. The Exmoor National Park is nearby.
At 20 miles, it is the longest privately owned passenger rail line in the UK. It operates using heritage steam and diesel locomotives, and provides transport for the community as well as a leisure attraction for visitors. In the first respect however the WSR’s ability to provide a true public transport alternative to the car is limited by its having to stop short of the major town of Taunton
The West Somerset Railway Association provides an army of volunteers who carry out a wide range of tasks to support the Railway, from booking clerks to gardeners to engine drivers.