ROYAL Marines from 40 Commando paraded at Minehead's railway station to mark the renaming of one of the trains in honour of the unit.

The train formally called the 7828 Odney Manor is now the Norton Manor - 40 Commando, commemorating their base at Norton Fitzwarren, near Taunton.

Major Renny Bulmer of 40 Commando said: “It is a great honour for the unit to be recognised in this unique manner.

“We have forged close links with West Somerset Railway over the years and it is fantastic that they have decided to name one of their locomotives after the unit's home base.”

Many of the marines on parade during the naming ceremony served last year in Afghanistan.

West Somerset Railway General Manager Paul Conibeare said: “The railway felt that with 7828 due to return to service with us this year, we should take the opportunity to commemorate the Battalion and its sacrifice with a locomotive nameplate that also continues the naming traditions of the Great Western Railway.”

The day after the naming ceremony families of the marines were treated to a day out in Minehead.