Somerset and Dorset Heritage Railway volunteers are celebrating achieving an ‘Outstanding’ award from South West In Bloom for their ‘Its Your Neighbourhood’ entry this year.

Grounds and Gardens volunteers met in the Railway Mini Buffet at Midsomer Norton Station last week for a coffee and mince pie with the Mayor of Midsomer Norton, Cllr Lynda Robertson. The Mayor presented the Station Volunteers with the Certificate of ‘Outstanding’ awarded by the South West In Bloom ‘Its Your Neighbourhood’ scheme.

Trustee, Malcolm Barton, introduced the Mayor who was very suitably dressed for the occasion on a cold day with her thick red robe. He said: “One of favourable comments from the judges was the way that the Heritage Railway had links with the local Council and groups from the community – and that we should develop those links. So, I am very pleased to welcome Cllr Robertson to make this presentation.

“I would like to thank all the Volunteers for all their hard work and for achieving such recognition for the environmental improvements that have been made at our station. Well done!”

The judges at South West In Bloom accompanied their award with comments about the entry.

They were very complimentary about the use of colourful planting schemes appropriate to the industrial heritage theme, which includes a large topiary sculpture of Thomas the Tank engine (or 0-6-0-T in railway speak).

They praised the links between the railway volunteers and the schools, particularly the Mendip School and the Fosse Way School students who had regularly volunteered.

Another good point was the table and seating area outside where visitors can relax and have refreshments and schools can gather for talks and activities.

Gail Coleshill, Head of Gardens at the station, said: “Not only are we judged on what we have achieved during the year, but the judges come up with helpful suggestions for next year.

“This year they have suggested we develop our good working relationship with the Town Council and also consider making a video of the work and development of the site.”