THE West Somerset Railway will be putting on special trains to cope with the expected influx of visitors when the Red Arrows, Red Devils and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight take to the skies above Minehead next Wednesday.

Last year around 20,000 people packed into Minehead to watch the aerobatic displays and visitors are being advised to leave their cars at home and let the train take the strain.

Services will run between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead at 9.30am, 10.25am, 11.05am, 11.40am and 12.30pm, returning at 2pm, 3pm, 3.30pm, 4pm, 4.55pm and 5.55pm.

Paul Conibeare, the railway's managing director, said: "If the weather is kind and all the displays go off as planned then we know from last year's experience that we will perform a very useful service as a means of getting to and from Minehead.

"The day will be a very important one for the economy of Minehead and West Somerset and we are pleased to be able to make our contribution to its success."

The spectacular display is being brought to Minehead by Butlins with support from the Minehead Events Group (MEG), which is organising street entertainment and a market.

Attractions on the ground will include flight simulators, bouncy castles, a display by the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, a marching band, morris men and stalls include arts, craft and food producers.

The line up for the day includes:

l 11am market stalls open.

l Noon, Sea King helicopter lands on the seafront at Warren Road upper car park.

*12.15pm Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

* 1pm Red Arrows.

* 2pm Red Devils.

Julian Highfield, Butlins resort director, said: "Last year's event was a resounding success and we are making it even bigger and better this year.

"We are delighted that the Battle of Britain air show will be joining last year's favourites.

"This event benefits the whole community and we hope that everyone has a great day out in Minehead."

The road from the Seaward Way roundabout near Butlins will be closed to the junction of Glenmore Road at the lower end of The Avenue, while Quay Street will be closed to the junction of Blenheim Road.