Reopening of the Gauge Museum Bishops Lydeard Station
The new interpretation of the Gauge Museum at Bishops Lydeard station was formally opened by Rebecca Pow MP for Taunton Deane on Saturday, 21st May 2022 at an event held with selected guests.
The new interpretation, funded jointly by the National Heritage Lottery Fund and the West Somerset Railway Heritage Trust is the culmination of a three-year project undertaken by Trustees and volunteers. It was actually completed in 2021 but the formal opening was delayed due to the restrictions imposed by Covid 19.
Around £60,000 has been invested in new displays, an increased number of artefacts and the introduction of interactive materials and activities. The centrepiece of the museum remains GWR 1897 Sleeping Car 9038 which has been enhanced internally with examples of Victorian costumes and other exhibits reflective of the period.
The Heritage Trust gratefully acknowledges the support and funding contribution of the National Heritage Lottery Fund without which the reinterpretation of the Gauge Museum would not have been possible.
"I am delighted to have been asked to reopen the Gauge Museum on behalf of the West Somerset Railway Heritage Trust and the West Somerset Railway PLC. Preserving our railway heritage and celebrating the role of the West Somerset Railway as part of our local community through this insightful museum is a an excellent achievement and I commend the Trust for developing this initiative"
"The Heritage Trust has done a fantastic job to enhance the Gauge Museum as a key attraction on the WSR. A lot of hard work has gone into the project and we encourage visitors to take the opportunity to go and visit the range of new and improved displays and artefacts that the Museum has to offer"
"The completion of the Gauge Museum Project marks a real milestone in the achievements of the Heritage Trust on the WSR. I would like to thank all the Trustees and other volunteers who have worked tirelessly over the last 3 ½ years to bring such an impressive achievement to fruition. We would also like to thank the National Heritage Lottery Fund for their contribution and support during the project and we look forward to visitors and staff enjoying what is a real celebration of the history and heritage of the West Somerset Railway”.
For further information please contact Steve Williams, Company Secretary at steve@williamsemail.uk or 07748-637209
