A Virgin CrossCountry Voyager train will again contrast the latest in West Country rail travel with the past glory of steam when it runs from Bristol to Weston-super Mare and Taunton and to Bishops Lydeard on the West Somerset Railway in October.

On Saturday and Sunday 6 and 7 October, the state-of-the-art Voyager will leave Bristol Temple Meads, call at Weston-super-Mare and Taunton and connect with an historic steam train at Bishops Lydeard for journeys to Minehead.

The Voyager will then run a shuttle service between Bishops Lydeard and Taunton throughout the weekend for visitors to the West Somerset Railway's Autumn Steam Gala before making the return trip to Weston-super-Mare and Bristol Temple Meads each evening.

Virgin Trains Managing Director Chris Gibb said: "We are especially pleased to have been able to again help the West Somerset Railway because engineering work during this weekend has presented us with a spare Voyager and crew. This will enable visitors to enjoy the latest in West Country rail travel to a celebration of steam-powered history."

West Somerset Railway General Manager Paul Conibeare said: "Following the success of a Voyager at our Spring Steam Gala we are delighted to be working with Virgin CrossCountry on another exciting and innovative venture to continue to highlight modern and heritage rail travel in the West Country."

National fares will be available for the journey between Bristol and Taunton with a £2.50 single or £5 return fare for the shuttle service between Taunton and Bishops Lydeard.