West Somerset Railway

We had parked the car at Washford and walked along the old West Somerset Mineral line, now a footpath, down to Watchet, with the idea of catching the train back to Washford. When the train, a four-car DMU, arrived at Watchet, we looked for the Guard's van. We were right opposite it. But there were two! And the doors of van near us were locked as one helpful passenger (a off-duty WSR volunteer as we later found out) found. But at least he tried. At the same time, another WSR person travelling on the train, dashed out, said "Hold on" and ran to the other end of the train, ran back to us, and guided us to the van at the other end. By that time, the ramp was in place, but we had to wait as other wheelchair-bound passenger detrained. A slight delay as the Guard patiently advised that party on the best way to get into town. Then we were onboard and promptly guided by the Guard and TTI to the wheelchair space where we found we could sit in real comfort with Matt alongside in a normal carriage area, along with other passengers. At Washford, we were detrained with equal efficiency. Well done the train crew and the two other WSR people who were so quick to help. We hear a lot about the legendary WSR friendly staff who go the extra mile to help and advise - well, we have now experienced it for ourselves!