Did you know that there has been a rail link with Barnstaple for over 150 years? Here is an interesting archive link.
http://cache.zoominfo.com/cachedpage/?archive_id=0&page_id=746491612&page_url=%2f%2fwww.northdevonjournal.co.uk%2fdisplayNode.jsp%3fcommand%3dnewPage%26nodeId%3d141510%26contentPK%3d10551068&page_last_updated=7%2f9%2f2004+1%3a56%3a20+AM&firstName=Andrew&lastName=Griffiths

I have looked into this further , and come up with two links :

Then & Now - Melksham Railway Station link.
http://www.wiltshiretimes.co.uk/wtimesfeatures/downmemorylane/display.var.796327.0.then_now_melksham_railway_station.php

"It was to be known as the Wilts and Somerset Railway, and cost £1m to be designed and built. On September 5, 1848, the line was opened to the public. Unfortunately previous monopolies prevented the line actually entering Chippenham and passengers had to alight at Thingley."

Melksham railway station Wikipedia link.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melksham_railway_station

"Originally named Staverton Halt, the station opened on 15 October 1905."