The children walked to the station along the path of the original railway line, now part of the National Cycle Network, to meet staff at the station who were dressed in the uniforms of the 1950/60s.

The children visited the original (restored) station building, which is typical of others along the line, built in the 19th Century and continuing to operate until March 1966. In the museum, they were able to see a unique collection of artefacts relating to both the railway and WWII. The station also boasts a rebuilt signal box and greenhouse and a re-laid running line of almost one mile.

The young history students visited everything in small groups and were then thrilled to have a ride up the old Somerset & Dorset line towards Chilcompton. Volunteers, led by School Visits Organiser, John Marriott, were pleased to be on hand to guide the children around the site and to tell them how the volunteers help to bring a little bit of local history to life.

Museum volunteers, Roger and Viv Taylor, Station Master, Colin Button, driver, Matt Cornborough and second man Harry Jones, along with signalman, Steve Page, all gladly gave up their time so that the children could experience a little taste of life at the railway in the 20th Century.

Railway staff are keen to welcome other school parties.

This is a ‘living’ history site and has much to offer with respect to the National Curriculum.

A visit can be arranged through the website: https:/sdjr.co.uk/ or by telephone: 01761 411221.

The photos show the young history students with their teachers, helpers and the volunteers on the platform outside Midsomer Norton Station building and learning about the station.