The quick thinking and resourcefulness of Yeovil Railway Centre came to the aid of a broken down steam service recently.
On Thursday, April 18th, the 35005 Canadian Pacific was en route from Eastleigh to Yeovil Junction as part of that week's Steam Extravaganza.
Unfortunately, an oil pipe broke and left the train stranded at Gillingham. But Dave Grabham, of Yeovil Railway Centre, and fellow train enthusiasts managed to find the necessary equipment and rush it to Gillingham so that repairs could be carried out.
Mark Owen, a director of the centre, said: "It was just another justification for our existence. Our whole purpose is to provide the services and facilities that are required by main line steam locomotives.
"As it is, we were able to do just one more thing to help ensure that these magnificent locomotives continue to run and bring pleasure to thousands of people up and down the country."
Mr Owen praised volunteers at the centre for their hard work during the week, saying they had only 90 minutes between arrival and departure to load five tons of coal, 4000 gallons of water as well as turning the 110 locomotive around.
Another steam visit is planned for Saturday 18th May at around midday. More information is available on the centre's website at http://www.yeovilrailway.freeservers.com">www.yeovilrailway.freeservers.com