THE West Somerset Railway will be marking the 50th anniversary of the closure of Taunton’s steam locomotive shed during its Autumn Steam Gala.

The gala takes place on October 2-5, and there will be an hourly steam train service between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead.

A line-up of ‘guest’ engines has been hired for the event, including the Manor Class 7820 Dinmore Manor.

Some of the WSR-based ‘residents’ will also assume the identities of long-vanished classmates, including the 4131, 4932 Hatherton Hall and the 7907 Heveningham Hall.

The WSR has also invited any former railway staff who worked at the Taunton shed to attend a reunion lunch on October 4.

This will include a day ticket for travel on the trains and a buffet lunch at the Beach Hotel in Minehead. Anyone wanting to go should contact Colin Howard or John Simms on 01643-704996.

There will be a chance to see behind the scenes at some of the workshops along the lines on the Saturday and Sunday, and the museums at Bishops Lydeard, Washford and Blue Anchor stations will be welcoming visitors. South-West England railways historian Colin G Maggs will be signing copies of his books at Minehead Station Shop on October 3.

The Gauge Museum at Bishop Lydeard will be hosting an art and photographic exhibition, and the Taunton Model Railway group will have their club room at the station open on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

A full colour souvenir booklet is on sale at West Somerset Railway stations or on the website, giving full information about the gala.

For more information on the gala, visit the West Somerset Railway website or call 01643-704996.