ESSMEE...

ESSMEE

Formed in 2005 the East Somerset Society of Model & Experimental Engineers (ESSMEE) created The Bath and West Steam Railway at the Bath and West Showground near Shepton Mallet, Somerset.

The members come from all walks of life, some with the traditional engineering skills. Some pursue their own interests using a wide range skills and knowledge, and many have created their own models including locomotives, coaches and wagons, traction engines, aircraft engine models and clocks taking advice from others when needed. Particular efforts are taken with younger members to encourage them to develop their interests and skills with smaller projects as well as helping at our public events.

We look forward to the public joining us at shows where they can have fun on our railway and its ½ mile track.  (at the showground). During the Royal Bath & West Show four trains are run to satisfy the number of visitors. The club’s locos and privately owned ones include steam, diesel and electric driven models of diesel locomotives. All members are encouraged to learn to drive.

Naturally there is more, much more...

• The track is one of the longest in Somerset supporting both 5" and 7¼" and follows a small river, around a lake before returning to the station.
• Additionally, the main club area includes;
  • clubhouse with facilities for meetings, storage and a fully equipped workshop
  • ground level marshalling yards for 5” locos and rolling stock
  • steaming bay, turntable and train preparation area
  • signalling on the block system using both electricity and compressed air.
• The society offers Driver Training with taster sessions on its Driver Experience

The society is a friendly place and guidance and help are always available to members. You might want to read our Mission Statement on the About page. We are always looking for new members so if you wish to join a friendly, helpful bunch whose primary love is having fun with their hobby contact us!

Would you like to help?

Volunteers! The Society (or Bath and West Steam Railway) is looking for some help in running the railway on key events such as the Bath and West Show. Places are limited and if you are interested  please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  for details. Look forward to hearing from you.

Roy Procter steams his new engine

My Stafford, ‘Ifor’ was first steamed on Wednesday 31 July when it passed hydraulic & steam tests OK; I only managed a couple of circuits round the club house before loosing fire and steam etc. and packing up.

On Saturday ‘Ifor' was steamed again much more successfully and several circuits of the clubhouse were made by David Hale, Roger H-C and me. I am very pleased with the result as he runs very nicely when one gets the fire and pressure better organised! The injectors are a bit tricky to get working, but no doubt this is a matter of practice with these particular ones. Steam blew back into the lubricator which made an oily, watery mess.

Read more ...