THE world is mourning the loss of renowned physicist and best selling author of 'A Brief History of Time', Professor Stephen Hawking, who passed away this morning (Wednesday, March 14). On August 27, 2014 Professor Hawking became one of the first passengers to travel on the West Somerset Railway's new specially adapted wheelchair accessible carriage. Professor Hawking was greeted and welcomed at Bishops Lydeard station by Professor John Irven, chairman of the West Somerset Railway plc and Alan Nicholson, the Stationmaster at Bishops Lydeard. Professor Hawking thoroughly enjoyed his time on England’s longest “heritage” railway accompanied by members of his family, and the WSR said it was delighted to have him visit. Mr Irven explained that as well being one of the greatest scientists of our age, Professor Hawking had a personal interest in steam railways. Professor Hawking made a private visit to the railway after seeing WSR's publicity about having a … [Read more...] about The day Professor Stephen Hawking visited West Somerset Railway
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West Somerset College sees ‘meteoric rise’ in progress after ‘special measures’ three years ago
WEST Somerset College has shown a ‘meteoric’ rise in performance as the latest league tables are published. Schools across Taunton Deane and West Somerset have been ranked in the latest leagues tables by the Department for Education. The latest figures show that a rising numbers of maintained or academy secondary schools are under-performing in England. New data shows one in eight of England’s mainstream secondaries – 365 in total – fell below the Government’s minimum standards in 2017 West Somerset College came up top and third overall in Somerset, scoring a Progress 8 rating of 0.32. The improvement was described as a ‘meteoric rise’ by the trust that runs it. West Somerset College. Peter Elliott, chief executive of Bridgwater College Trust, said: “When you consider three years ago the college was in special measures, this has been a meteoric rise and we hope it continues. The trust was brought in to support and … [Read more...] about West Somerset College sees ‘meteoric rise’ in progress after ‘special measures’ three years ago
LETTER: Taunton Deane and West Somerset leaders respond to council merger concerns
A GREAT deal has been written, claimed and counter-claimed in recent weeks about the proposal for a new council covering Taunton Deane and West Somerset. It’s a shame that those voicing such strident opinions against the proposal cannot even agree on why it should not go ahead. On one hand, we have those claiming that council tax payers in Taunton Deane will be bailing out ‘bankrupt’ West Somerset. On the other, we have those who say West Somerset’s financial situation is comfortable and the council can carry on as it is. Both are fundamentally wrong - and they fail to see that the proposal is about more than that. READ MORE: More news on the merger plan It’s about being a united and strong voice for our area and one able to serve its residents and businesses effectively and efficiently. First, the bail-out claims: A fundamental point being missed throughout is that neither council would subsidise the other. Under the proposal to create … [Read more...] about LETTER: Taunton Deane and West Somerset leaders respond to council merger concerns
Nearly 3,000 more rides were taken on West Somerset Railway in 2017 than 2016
NEARLY 3,000 more rides were taken on West Somerset Railway in 2017 than in 2016. In 2016, the passenger numbers were at 186,603, and have risen to 189,359 making 2017 a great year for the West Somerset Railway. One of the railways overall goals is to increase its passenger numbers to 200,000, as was achieved in 2009. Paul Conibeare General Manager said: “I am delighted with the results for 2017, showing the hard work put in by staff and volunteers, has resulted in another great year for the WSR. “We are now progressing with a programme of track renewal and locomotive and carriage overhauls, to ensure England’s longest Heritage Railway is ready for re-opening on the 10th February.” Services will resume for February Half Term, where events such as the Snowdrops and Steam will take place. Tickets can be purchased in advance through the website. … [Read more...] about Nearly 3,000 more rides were taken on West Somerset Railway in 2017 than 2016
West Somerset Council considers 3 council tax rise
WEST Somerset Council is considering a council tax increase of 3.32 per cent for the next financial year. The council says it will be able to set a balanced budget in the coming year, despite substantial cuts in general funding support. The council has received its provisional settlement from Government that sets out the share of grant funding and business rates income that will be due to West Somerset in the next financial year from April 2018. The actual grant settlement – made up of revenue support grant, rural services delivery grant and new homes bonus grant – totals £738,000 next year. This is £296,000 or 29 per cent less than the current financial year. A share of business rates income is kept by West Somerset under the “retention” system. The settlement has confirmed the baseline and tariff amounts included for West Somerset retention calculations which is £218,000 lower than previously forecast. However, overall the … [Read more...] about West Somerset Council considers 3 council tax rise