West Somerset Railway Heritage Trust

23/10/2026

15/10/2026

"The Heritage Trust would like to add our own sincere condolences to Jonathan's family and friends at this difficult time. We know he will be missed by all and especially by those who worked alongside him on the 'Wizzer' as he used to fondly refer to the railway".

The West Somerset Railway is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Jonathan Jones-Pratt, Chairman of West Somerset Railway PLC, aged just 42, following a short period of ill health.

Jonathan became Chairman in 2018, at a particularly challenging time for the heritage railway, which was facing significant financial and compliance issues. Under his leadership, the railway worked through these difficulties and continued to move forward, navigating further unprecedented challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic, Brexit and the ongoing economic pressures affecting the wider tourism industry.

Throughout his eight years as Chairman, Jonathan demonstrated unwavering commitment, resilience and dedication to the railway. His leadership and determination played an important role in helping the organisation navigate these challenges and build towards the future.

A larger-than-life character, Jonathan had a lifelong passion for transport and a deep affection for the heritage railway movement. Jonathan often visited the West Somerset Railway as a child and in his teenage years became a volunteer himself, he often recalled these early memories of the railway with much fondness. He joined the locomotive department in 2014 and was a regular member of the footplate crew, reflecting his enthusiasm for the practical side of railway operations as well as his leadership responsibilities.

Beyond his passion for railways, Jonathan was equally committed to supporting and developing people. He provided unwavering encouragement to colleagues and volunteers, helping individuals grow in confidence, develop their skills and progress in their roles. Whether working with the management team or supporting competence development across the railway, Jonathan recognised the importance of investing in people and helping them reach their potential.

Heritage railways are more than just organisations; they are communities built on shared passion, friendship and a strong sense of family. Jonathan’s passing has therefore come as a profound shock and loss to the entire West Somerset Railway community. He will be greatly missed by colleagues, volunteers and friends across the railway.

At this deeply difficult time, the thoughts and heartfelt condolences of everyone at the West Somerset Railway are with Jonathan’s family and loved ones.

Following Jonathan’s passing, Vice Chairman Robin Wichard will become Acting Chairman of West Somerset Railway PLC, providing leadership and continuity as the railway looks ahead to 2027.

09/10/2026

25/09/2026

TODAY FRIDAY 25 Sep in the GAUGE JUNCTION MODEL RAILWAY>>>>>>

GWR and LMS themed running to reflect the WSR's Autumn Steam Weekend.

Add to your programme Join us at Bishops Lydeard Station platform 1 in the Gauge Museum upper level. All welcome lots to see and enjoy 😀🤗

> details here > https://www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk/events/view/autumn-steam-weekend-25th-27th-september-2026

📸 Ed Loat

18/09/2026

SPAM 😋😋😋🍴featured significantly over the Forties weekend courtesy of Hormel Company.

They supplied many of the photos and stories giving us permission to reproduce.

This together with many special exhibits highlighted the role the Railway and its people played in WWII and into the 50s. As well as the serious side fun was had by all involved and visiting platform 1 in the

Come visit us and ALSO AT OUR MUSEUM AT BLUE ANCHOR WHERE THE FAMOUS Globe Trotter ANNIE AND HER MUM RESIDED. Something for everyone.🥰
📸 Ian Camp, Don Fraser

11/09/2026

📣 BE SURE YOU DON'T MISS OUT VISITING .....the Heritage Trust Museum at BISHOPS LYDEARD & the Carriage Restoration Workshops 🔨🔧🔩🛠🗜 @ Washford station during the…. WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY's FORTIES EVENT -- --12TH & 13TH SEPTEMBER 🎯🚂

Here’s a run-down of what you can experience:
IN THE MUSEUM AT BISHOPS LYDEARD STATION….
• Detailed displays of life around and on the railway through WWII into the 1950’s”
• History of the Railway’s activities during WWII and into the 1950’s”
• NAAFI van for refreshments ☕🍪
• Picnic tables
• Live Music & if you’re up to it dancing 👩‍🎤🎶
AT WASHFORD STATION
• Workshop visits between 10.00 to 16.00 --last entry 15.30
Plenty for everyone to enjoy 🤩🥰

More details here https://www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk/events/view/west-somerset-railway-forties-event-2026

10/09/2026

WHICH French ports were used in WWII for evacuation when the shortest route to Calais was unsafe to use?

The GWR Steamship in the photo, St Helier, played and major part in the Dunkirk evacuation, both the ship’s master and several senior officers were decorated for acts of bravery.

To find the ANSWER to the question ......... Come along and join us during the WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY's FORTIES EVENT --12TH & 13TH SEPTEMBER-- in the GAUGE MUSEUM at BISHOPS LYDEAD STATION on PLATFORM 1 for more revelations about the fascinating history of the WSR during WWII --- ✅🎯

More details here https://www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk/events/view/west-somerset-railway-forties-event-2026

09/09/2026

COME GRAB A SANDWICH OR HOT SNACK IN THE BISHOPS LYDEARD STATION CAFE 😋 .....then get a cup of tea and biscuit at the NAAFI VAN ☕ 🍪 on Platform 1 ........sitting in the garden whilst listening👂or dancing 💃🏼🕺🏻 live 50’s music!

TO ENJOY JOIN US at he WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY's FORTIES EVENT --12TH & 13TH SEPTEMBER-- in the GAUGE MUSEUM at BISHOPS LYDEAD STATION on PLATFORM 1 for more revelations about life and history of the WSR during WWII --- ✅🎯

More details here https://www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk/events/view/west-somerset-railway-forties-event-2026
🤩💃🏼🕺🏻