DRIVING lessons with a difference are being offered in West Somerset with learners going from nought to 25 mph in as little as three days.

The lessons will teach people how to drive a West Somerset Railway (WSR) steam locomotive on its 20-mile heritage line from Minehead to Bishops Lydeard.

The WSR is offering bronze, silver, and gold level steam engineman courses on specified dates during the year.

The gold course, which is limited to four trainees, involves prepping the engine and a round trip on the footplate performing firing one way and then driving on the return.

A second round trip will see the learners travel in the train with the guard for an insight into the requirements of their job.

The learners must first have completed a two-day bronze course, for a maximum of six people, to ensure they have all the necessary knowledge required for their gold day.

The first of the bronze days teaches theory of steam and boiler management, locomotive operation, and signalling, and includes visits to the signal box, locomotive sheds, and workshops.

On day two, the learners prepare the locomotive for the day’s work, including oiling and lighting the fire, watching as the steam they create brings the engine to life.

They then have three round trips from Minehead to Blue Anchor hauling an empty passenger train with firing and driving experience and spending time learning about the guard’s responsibilities.

The WSR also offers a silver course once the bronze stage has been completed, which involves helping with both locomotive preparation and disposal, a goods service from Minehead to Blue Anchor, and shunting moves in Minehead and Dunster.

There are also half-day taster courses.

A WSR spokesperson said: “Treat somebody special, even yourself, to the thrill of a lifetime learning what it feels like to be a real fireman and engine driver.”