The scenic, steam-operated SOUTH DEVON RAILWAY (SDR) will be marking the start of its main daily running season with a bargain Spring ‘half fare’and Members’ Open Day over the weekend of Saturday and Sunday (16th & 17th March).

Passengers will be able to cast off the cold and wet Winter blues and step out to bask in a cut-price steam feast redolent of the ‘Golden Age’ of steam.

Frequent trains will be running on both days over the pretty seven-mile line from Buckfastleigh to Totnes, and which will appeal to families and enthusiasts alike.

Countryside lovers will be able to see and enjoy some stunning Spring scenery from the comfort of the trains as they meander their leisurely way down one of Devon’s most glorious valleys by the River Dart which is now carpeted with beautiful daffodils and primroses, and walkers can take advantage of some relaxing walks and see the flowers from stations too.

Coming a few weeks before the Easter break, the South Devon Railway always marks the start of each season with a special cut-price event to say ‘Thank You’ to the line’s many regular visitors, local people and volunteers, all of whom love the authentic recreation of the long gone, but not forgotten Great Western Railway.

And with continuing worries over the nation’s economy and job cuts, the timing of the regular event presents an ideal opportunity to get out into the countryside for cash-conscious families as all fares will be at half-price.

The first train leaves from Buckfastleigh about 10.00am and from Totnes (Littlehempston) about 10.45am. Trains will leave both stations at about 45 minute intervals on both days.

Volunteer workers are always being sought to help with the running of the railway and the South Devon Railway Association (which supports the railway) is holding a start-of-season recruitment drive over the weekend too. So, if anyone is interested in getting their hands dirty and helping to keep the railway’s wheels turning, then they can just turn up and talk to some of the volunteers already helping run the SDR who can happily explain all of the jobs on offer and what’s involved.

With ample car parking at Buckfastleigh on the A38 Devon Expressway, the South Devon Railway is just 25 minutes from Plymouth, Exeter and Torbay.

The South Devon Railway also features an extensive range of products in the Expressway model railway and gift shop, and quality food and drink in its ‘Refreshment Rooms’

The South Devon Railway will be running trains EVERY day from the half price weekend on 16/17 March until November 3rd. The Expressway model railway shop has gifts for children of all ages and is open for business on most days along with the Refreshment Rooms.