The permanent way look after the track, the ballast and the structures along the line whilst the cutting back gang control the vegetation along the line in a way that has meant that several sites are officially regarded as of scientific importance. Signal and Telegraph need technicians, electrical engineers, painters and general labourers.

Prefer meeting people?  All of our stations need staff to sell tickets, help passengers on the platforms, keep the gardens a treat for the eyes, run sales counters and cope with an endless range of questions, some of which are highly unusual!  Buffet Car staff sell refreshments and help to make a better day for the passengers whilst Travelling Ticket Inspectors raise important revenue and sometimes go on to train as Guards, the staff with overall responsibility for the safety of the train.

Signalmen have a major responsibility for the safe operation of the railway and also for the road level crossings at Williton, Blue Anchor and Minehead.

And if you have always wanted to drive a steam train then you can start in the Locomotive Department as a Cleaner, working your way up through the grades until you finally become a driver. Or if you prefer keeping the engines, coaches and wagons in good order there are vacancies in the engineering sections for skilled hands.

The WSR does not practice sex discrimination. We have women loco crews and male shop staff. What we do expect is that all volunteers do a professional job and keep the railway safe whilst maintaining our reputation as a friendly and welcoming place for passengers, visitors and fellow staff alike.

Quantock Belle Dining Train

The Quantock Belle luxury dining train operates on the West Somerset Railway on most Sunday lunchtimes from April until October, serving roast lunches on the northbound journey from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead and cream teas on the return leg later in the day. The train is staffed entirely by volunteers, and we are always delighted to hear from anyone who is interested in working with us, either behind the scenes in the kitchen or bar area, or as dining or wine stewards serving meals and drinks to our lunch guests. Even if you are only available on a few Sundays a year we'd love to hear from  you, so if you'd like to know more about us please call Larraine Willmott on (01934) 732171 or send an e-mail to qbvolunteers@tiscali.co.uk.

For more information on volunteering on the West Somerset Railway contact 01823 433856 or email us by clicking here