RAIL passengers and cyclists will soon be able to travel from Westbury to Weymouth on a new train.

As part of a series of improvements planned for the Wessex rail line, the train will depart from Westbury at 9.30am every Saturday.

The train is the first of its kind to feature two vintage class 31 diesel locomotives, 220 seats in air conditioned main line coaches and free space for 30 bicycles.

Charles Belcher, managing director of Wessex Trains, said: "The new special train is the first of a series of improvements planned for this line.

"We are seeking to introduce better trains, station improvements and other innovations in the coming months."

Bernard Lane, advisor to the Rail Partnership, said: "Cyclists will bring valuable spending to hard pressed rural shops and pubs down the line."