A GOVERNMENT Minister could visit Wellington to hear about the efforts to re-open the town's rail station.

Claire Perry has been briefed on the possibility of new metro styile railway stations at Wellington and Cullompton providing a link into Exeter.

Ms Perry, who was at Taunton Station last year to check on improvement plans there, praised the efforts of Taunton Deane MP Rebecca Pow during a debate on the Great Western Rail route in the Commons last week.

Ms Pow, who was unable to attend as she is recovering from surgery, has campaigned for the Wellington initiative and pressed Ministers for funding.

In her summary speech, Ms Perry said: "My Hon Friend Rebecca Pow cannot be here tonight as she is recovering from surgery, but she too has campaigned on the vital issue of regional connectivity and is working hard on proposals to put forward to the New Station Investment Fund, to which this Government have committed another £20 million in the latest spending review."

Taunton Deane Council has announced it is putting up £40,000 for a feasibility study looking into the benefits of re-opening Wellington Station.

Ms Pow told the countygazette.co.uk: "I am delighted to see the enthusiasm for this project from both central government and more importantly Taunton Deane Council.

"It is still early days and there is a long way to travel on this project but I am pleased with the Minister’s interest following my preliminary discussions with her.

"I am also heartened that TDBC are being proactive in committing £40,000 towards the vital feasibility study that needs to be carried out in order to apply for the New Stations Fund.

"I urge the other organisations involved in the working group looking into the potential for metro style stations at both Wellington and Cullompton to contribute to this study too.

"This is crucial if we are to make any progress.

"In the meantime I will continue to keep the government on board and am hopeful that the Rail Minister will come to Wellington herself to fully appreciate how this wonderful town could reap the rewards of increased transport connectivity."