THIS year the West Somerset Railway is running special steam trains to the market on both market days, Saturday November 30 and Sunday December 1.

There are two ticket options for these trains: one from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead return and one from Williton/Watchet return.

The train will leave Bishops Lydeard, travelling through the heart of the Quantocks as autumn finally moves into winter.

It will next call at Williton from where the train will depart at 11.26.

The next and final call will be at Watchet where the train will depart at 11.35.

The return service will leave Minehead at 3pm, giving passengers plenty of time to enjoy the market and to do more shopping or enjoy a lunch in the town.

Passengers will be back to Watchet at 15.33, Williton at 15.43 and Bishops Lydeard at 16:18.

The Friends of Minehead Station’s “Readers Halt” stall will be open as will the Minehead station shop and cafe.

The Market Trains are the first in a packed programme of specials in the lead-up to Christmas.

As well as the ever-popular Santa Expresses and Carol Trains, there will be Panto Trains, Quantock Belle Dining Trains, Festive Spirit Specials, and light refreshment outings with sherry and mince pies or afternoon teas.

The Bad Santa train (for adults only) will take its passengers back to the Yuletide Kings of Misrule tradition.

Pre-booking (which is strongly advised) and more details can be found online at www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk or by calling 01643 704996.