THE West Somerset Railway's Winter Steam Festival returns on December 28 and 29, offering a good way to see the Somerset Countryside in the winter.

Steam trains will leave Bishops Lydeard and Minehead at hourly intervals from 9.45am until 3.45pm.

In addition to the train services, there will be things to see and do along the line. Bishops Lydeard station shop has book signings both days as well as a book signing at the Minehead station shop on the Saturday.

The Gauge Museum and the club room of the Taunton Model Railway Group will be open at Bishops Lydeard.

Williton passangers will be able to visit the Depot and Heritage Centre of the Diesel and Electric Preservation Group.

At Minehead, visitors aged 16 and over will be able to try their hand at 'Driver for a Fiver.”

The West Somerset Railway will also be running steam train services on December 27, 30 and 31 and January 1.

For more information, call 01643-704996 or visit www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk.