Steam-hauled trains returned to the West Somerset Railway briefly yesterday (Thursday) after an eight-day ban due to the fire risk during the prolonged drought.

But as the whole country began to enjoy prolonged rainfall and thundery showers, West Somerset Railway introduced a "trial" steam-hauled service from Bishop's Lydeard.

A company spokesman told the Free Press: “Due to the Met Office amber warning of severe fire risk during the hot weather and dry conditions last week, we replaced steam-hauled services with diesel in case sparks from our steam locomotives started a grass fire."

She added: "Depending on the success of the trial steam-hauled service, we may be able to re introduce the normal mix of steam trains on our line from Saturday (August 20th)."

The company will be issuing a full statement about steam services next week.