MORE than 3,200 passengers travelled the West Somerset Railway over the weekend in what has been hailed as a "successful start" to this year's spring steam gala. For the first time, the event has been split over two weekends and the railway's general manager Paul Conibeare said he was very pleased with the initial results. Train enthusiasts have come from far and wide to take part in the gala, which features a fleet of eight steam engines with Somerset and Dorset Railway connections. Among the stars of the gala are the 9F locomotive 92203 Black Prince, which is owned by famous artist David Shepherd, and Pacific number 34067 Tangmere. Mr Conibeare said: "A two weekend event is a first for us. We didn't know how well things would go so the turnout was very pleasing, especially as the weather was less than inspiring on Saturday and Sunday." The spring gala continues this weekend and more details are available from the railway on 01643 704996 or by logging-on to http://www.West">www.West- Somerset-Railway.co.uk. Pictured are John Williams and Derek Boswell, drivers of Somerset and Dorset 7F Locos 88 and 53809. Photo: Steve Guscott
