WEST Somerset Railway has raised £700 for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and St Margaret's Hospice thanks to its carol trains.

In early December, the WSR operated two carol trains between Minehead and Williton and one between Bishops Lydeard and Williton.

People took along hampers and drinks and when the train stopped at the stations traditional Christmas songs were played on the platform performed by local brass bands.

Mark Smith, WSR managing director, said: "The popularity of the carol train seems to grow with each passing year and it is very pleasing for us to be able to put something back into the local communities."

The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is always grateful for any donations.