TAKE a bow the residents of Dowsland Way - first time Taunton visitors Kate and Tyrone Belger reckon you live in the kindest street in Somerset.

The couple had headed down to the county town from their home in Cambridge for a cousin's funeral.

But while pottering along Dowsland Way on Friday, their car suddenly spluttered to a standstill.

"We just came to a shuddering halt. What a day to break down," said Kate.

"It was one of the busiest days on the roads and certainly one of the hottest.

"Feeling down on our luck, my husband and I considered the options and faced several hours' wait in the head-splitting heat for RAC recovery."

But the couple, both aged 60, need not have feared - help was at hand and what had looked like an unlucky moment turned into "the luckiest day of all" thanks to the hospitality of the residents of Dowsland Way.

"Our car stalled in the middle of the road, but within seconds we had three offers to push it to the pavement out of harm's way," said Kate.

"Noticing out plight, one resident, Pam, offered shade, chairs to sit on, the use of her toilet and even Magnums.

"A passing couple, Hilary and Rob, abandoned their afternoon stroll and drove me and my luggage to the pub accommodation some six miles away rather than wait for a taxi.

"I can't thank these amazing people enough.

"We will always remember the kindness and hospitality to be found in Somerset."

Kate and Tyrone spent Friday night at The Greyhound Inn, in Staple Fitzpaine, where they were impressed with the "delightful" accommodation, before heading back into Taunton the following day for the funeral at Taunton Deane Crematorium.

"A funeral wasn't a good reason for visiting Taunton, but the people were absolutely lovely," added Kate. "We can't thank them all enough.

"We were lucky not to break down on the motorway. It was our good fortune to break down where we did!

"We managed to get the car started before driving home.

"It certainly won't be the last time we visit Taunton."