WEST Somerset fire crews have tackled one of their most ambitious challenges yet - a simulated fire on board an actual passenger train.

Over 30 volunteers took part as live casualties in the training exercise on West Somerset Railway, complete with injuries and make-up supplied by Minehead's ambulance station.

The scenario was designed to mimic a fire breaking out on a passenger rail car as it approached the outer limits it Minehead Railway Station.

The train and its four carriages stopped away from the platform next to Minehead's Morrison's store so as to make accessing the train even more difficult.

Breathing apparatus crews were tasked with rescuing mannequins from a heavily smoke-filled carriage, while other crews evacuated the volunteers, which included wheelchair users.

Five fire engines from Minehead, Williton and Porlock along with Incident Support Units from Taunton and Wiveliscombe also took part, accompanied by trainee paramedics and a clinical lead paramedic.

Watch Manager Chris Jones, of Minehead Fire Station, said: “Opportunities like this do not become available that often and this gave all three partners the chance to practice techniques, contingencies and procedures.

“Following excellent efforts and professionalism from all the crews, all the casualties were located and rescued.”