A local transport historian will give an illustrated talk about the Abbotsbury Branch Railway on Friday, February 7.

Brian Jackson will deliver the talk at St Nicholas Church, Broadwey, located on the junction of Mill Street and Dorchester Road in Weymouth.

The church is situated adjacent to what was then called Upwey Station, where the Abbotsbury line commenced.

The Abbotsbury branch opened in November 1885, branching off the Dorchester-Weymouth line at Upwey Junction with stations at Broadwey, and Portesham, with a halt at Coryates added in 1906.

The promoters of the branch, the Abbotsbury Railway Company, had overestimated the traffic levels on the line. The development of car, coach and bus services throughout the early 20th century led to a further decline in usage and the line was closed on November 28, 1952.

Brian's talk will explore the reasons for the installation and closure of the Abbotsbury Branch Railway, as well as its operations during its existence.

The talk will begin at 7pm, with doors open from 6.45pm. Tickets are £5 on the door, with hot food included. Proceeds will be donated to the church.