CAMPAIGNERS for a regular rail service to Taunton from Minehead, Watchet and Williton set up a gazebo-style tent in Minehead’s Wellington Square to get their message across.

Minehead Rail Link Group (MRLG) bedecked the tent with campaign literature, rail maps, diagrams and balloons.

There were also forms for people to fill in if they wanted to assist in the campaign or be kept informed of developments – and dozens signed up. And local award-winning chef Stella Goldstone was on hand, giving away free samples of her cakes and scones.

Spearheaded by Minehead Chamber of Commerce chairman Alex de Mendoza, the MRLG is campaigning to get a regular service of conventional diesel trains running between Minehead, Taunton and beyond, ideally operated by Great Western Railway.

“We have held informal and friendly talks with Great Western Railway and the West Somerset Railway to see what might be achieved whilst maintaining the steam train service that runs between Minehead and Bishops Lydeard”, said Alex.

“These things take time and we are very conscious of the popularity of the steam trains and would hope that the two services could complement each other, thus bringing more tourists into the area and enabling locals to commute to Taunton and Bristol.”

MRLG acting secretary David Latimer, who also organised the ‘fun tent’ event, said:

“A first step towards our goal would be the extension of some of Great Western Railway’s Cardiff to Taunton trains to Bishops Lydeard, where passengers could change onto a steam train to Minehead. We are hopeful that this might be achieved as early as next year.”

More similar events are planned for various locations across Somerset. Further details can be found on the Minehead Rail Link website. Those who want to help can call Alex de Mendoza on 07768 427136.