CROWCOMBE Heathfield station sold a ticket from its booking office for the first time in over four decades last Friday, June 25.

The transaction marked a date in the history of the West Somerset Railway as it has long been the ambition to bring the booking office back into business.

Since the station welcomed back passengers and trains after reopening in 1979, ticket sales have been done on an occasional basis by volunteers with a ticket machine.

At other times, passengers have made their purchasers from the ticket inspectors on board.

Reopening the booking office not only reduces the ticket inspectors' workload but also brings back to life to the country station atmosphere.

The refurbishment was carried out by carpenter Ian Palmer, The Friends of Crowcombe Heathfield and members of RAMS (the West Somerset Railway Association's Renovation and Maintenance Squad).

On Friday, the retired former joint stationmasters Walter Harris and Michael Hodge cut the traditional ribbon and Walter bought the first ticket. Mrs Jean Hodge was presented with a bouquet by Emily, the granddaughter of current stationmaster Ted Cubitt.

The first members of the public to buy tickets from booking clerk David Bartin were a couple from Hereford who bought two returns to Minehead plus two bicycle tickets.

WSR general manager Paul Conibeare said: "With Crowcombe Heathfield and Stogumber stations now selling tickets once again, we are adding to the welcome and traditional railway ambience for our passengers and visitors.

"The two stations are used by many people who enjoy walking and cycling in the Quantock Hills and the sale of tickets is a small but important contribution to their enjoyment of the day out."