A SEASONAL trip on the West Somerset Railway turned out to be extra special for one young traveller when she found herself officially welcomed as the heritage line's 200,000th passenger for 2005. Young Libby O'Neill, aged four, was given a personal welcome by Father Christmas as she was joined by sister Chloe and mum and dad Helen and Justin O'Neill for a trip on the Santa Express from Bishops Lydeard. The journey was also a milestone for the West Somerset Railway as Libby's arrival helped to smash the previous yearly record of 192,000 passengers in 2004. Railway managing director Mark Smith was delighted the line was proving so popular. He said: "We have worked very hard in the last year to increase business, both from 'casual' visitors and organised coach parties as well as social groups. "Our special events for enthusiasts have also continued to grow in popularity and in 2006 our spring steam gala will be taking place over two weekends in March to cope with demand." But he said the continued growth in passenger numbers also placed increased demands on staff and would also require more investment in departments across the railway. He added: "By carrying over 200,000 passengers this year we have axiomatically raised our targets for the future to higher levels." Pictured with Santa at the West Somerset Railway are, from left: Helen, Libby, Justin and Chloe O'Neill. Photo: Steve Guscott.