SUPPORTERS and fans of the West Somerset Railway are being asked to make donations towards improving facilities at its Bishops Lydeard station.

The railway is continuing its fundraising towards improvements at its steam locomotive compound, estimated to cost around £150,000 in total.

The “Tiles and Towers” appeal has already been generously supported by WSR shareholders but the organisation says more money is required to take the work forward.

A shelter needs to be constructed and a water tank from Reading needs to be erected to replace the existing time-expired tank.

The water tank was moved to Reading locoshed in 1953 and holds 22,000 gallons.

It was in use until it was moved to the WSR in December 2013 as part of the work on the track layout at Reading and the relocation of the maintenance depot as part of the Great Western electrification work.

West Somerset Railway general manager Paul Conibeare said: “I can say from many years of personal experience that improved cover at Bishops Lydeard will make the job of our unpaid volunteer locomotive crews more comfortable when preparing engines at the start of the day and the “disposal” duties that are required before the locomotive can be left ready for the next day’s duty.

“From the viewpoint of the “presentation” that we offer to the passengers and visitors to the line something that will keep the worst of the weather at bay can only help in conserving paintwork.

“We would therefore like to thank everyone who has supported the appeal so far and thank in anticipation any further donors for their help.”

Donations for these projects can be sent to West Somerset Railway plc (Tiles and Towers Appeal), The Railway Station, Minehead, TA24 5BG.

As the WSR is a plc gift aid provisions do not apply