Resignation of the West Somerset Railway PLC Chairman.

It is with regret that the WSR Board has received the resignation of John Irven as chairman and director with immediate effect.

John has taken this decision due to a change in personal circumstances.

The Board would like to take this opportunity to thank John for the contribution he has made to the railway, since joining in 2012 and helping over Govier’s Lane Crossing and since becoming chairman in 2014. He has achieved a great deal of success in helping to deliver a more sustainable and professionally run activity for the 21^st century with a sharper commercial and safety focus. In particular, John was closely involved in securing the future of the railway freehold and resolving the differences with the West Somerset Railway Association (WSRA). It is through his personal involvement that we now have good working relations with the WSRA and our other support groups.

In the immediate short term, as vice-chairman, Ian Coleby will deputise for John until the board can elect a new chairman.

I am sure that the whole railway will join me in thanking John for his contribution and wishing him well for the future.