There is no sea at Midsomer Norton, but Sunday was a lovely sunny day for sand and water play at the station.

Face painter Hayley Spiller added to the fun with her special artistic face painting. A special favourite with the toddlers was the Thomas the Tank engine roller coaster, which was never still. Joyce, the station’s resident little steam engine, joined in by chugging up the line, taking children and their families for rides in the heritage coaches. The buffet car was busy all day, selling ice cream and seaside eats, and the station shop set up an outpost stall near the beach, which did a roaring trade in seaside gifts.

Parents and grandparents alike were pleased to find a day which was directed towards children’s activities.

Jane and Bob Tucker brought their grandchildren. They said: “This was a well organised, excellent ‘Fun Day out’. We took our grandchildren, who are aged between 7 months and 3 years. They loved the steam train rides, sandy beach and face painting. All the Volunteers were so helpful and supportive to ensure that all of our family could enjoy the amenities.”

Event organiser, Zaida Haworth, was very impressed with the enthusiasm from families at the Play day. She said: “Most of our events are directed to families, so it was very good to have a special day here for children. We are hoping that they will return with their families to other events at the station.”

The next events at the Midsomer Norton Station are the B&NES Heritage weekend on Saturday, 9th and Sunday, 10th September, when the station and Museum will be open.