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August 2025
Crossing the repaired section of the line at Mor Brook. JOHN TITLOW
Welcome to your latest edition of Branch Lines!
What a triumph! On 25 July, the full SVR line reopened with style – and none other than ‘Flying Scotsman’ to haul the first passenger service from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth this season. Lots of happy passengers, lots of positive PR for the Railway, and a huge feeling of relief and satisfaction all round.
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For many of those closely associated with the SVR, it wasn’t just about the heightened excitement of the first day with such a high profile visitor, but more about the significance of the full line being reunited.
It feels great to be ‘back together’ again!
Breaking news is the announcement of another visitor for the Autumn Steam Gala; 73082 ‘Camelot’ will be coming to the Railway for its first-ever visit. Read more below!
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We also have the story behind the superb mass-volunteering effort that connected our severed track back together above Mor Brook bridge and a report from the Greatest Gathering event at which the SVR star shone very brightly.
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All this and plenty of other news from across the Railway, in your August edition of Branch Lines!
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Lesley Carr, editor
The Branch Lines team is Lesley Carr, Karen Crick, Will Scott, Gary Essex, Amy Baker,
Pete Cherry and Nicola Fox.
Contents
Scroll down or click on the item to be taken straight to it
What's new?
Flying Scotsman’ reunites the Severn Valley line
On Friday 25 July, the world’s most famous locomotive 60103 ‘Flying Scotsman’ hauled the first passenger service across the SVR’s repaired Mor Brook bridge.
It marked the reunification of the line, enabling full-line trains to run for the first time this season.
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The service departed Kidderminster Town station at 9am, carrying 350 passengers along the full 16.5 miles of line, arriving to a triumphant welcome in Bridgnorth station moments after 10am.
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A short ceremony took place at Bridgnorth, paying tribute to the many people who’d worked so hard to complete the repair of the embankment at Mor Brook bridge, and those who’d donated to help the SVR pay for costs that weren’t covered by its insurance.
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Speaking after the event, managing director Gus Dunster said:
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“It’s wonderful to see the whole line reunited, and we want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed to making that happen; from our volunteers and staff, to the professionals who did such a swift job of repairing our damaged bridge, to individuals who donated to the SVR Resilience Fund. All of this has got us to where we are now, and we are very, very grateful.”
Owing to the very dry nature of lineside vegetation the difficult decision was taken to run 60103 with assistance from a Class 20 diesel locomotive on its first day, to reduce the risk of lineside fires. The SVR chose to prioritise both the smooth running of the day and safety concerns over unassisted running.
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Enthusiasm did not seem to be diminished however, as following Scotsman’s successful trip along the Valley, the famous locomotive spent the rest of its visit hauling trains carrying a total of around 4,300 passengers along the line, spending Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 July as the star attraction at the Railway’s Swinging Sixties event, where passengers stepped back in time to celebrate 60 years of SVR preservation.
Commenting on the success of the occasion, Gus added:
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“We simply could not have wished for a better way in which to celebrate not only the reunification of our line after the landslip repair, but also the milestone of our 60th anniversary as a preserved railway.
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“These factors in themselves are hugely important, but to mark them both with a rare visit from ‘Flying Scotsman’, well it just doesn’t get any better than that. We are indebted to the National Railway Museum, Northern Steam Operations Limited and DB Cargo for facilitating the visit.”
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The crowds of visitors have been very welcome to the SVR, bringing in much-needed passenger revenue, as well as booming business for the pubs, cafes and shops.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Back together again – the SVR is reunited
The first service on Friday 25 July, hauled by ‘Flying Scotsman’ marked the end of a long, long wait for everyone associated with the Railway, but none more so than the stalwart teams who’ve soldiered on at Bridgnorth and Eardington stations, despite being cut off for almost six months.
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During this time, work has carried on regardless to keep Bridgnorth station looking smart, as well as making improvements. Volunteers have made and installed a new running-in board and canopy valancing, as well as improving fencing, the gardens and refreshing paintwork. And the hanging baskets are truly magnificent!
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Bridgnorth station master Chris Thomas said, “Of course the Railwayman’s Arms has been open throughout, and we’ve also kept the refreshment room and shop going whenever possible, using volunteer staff.
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“And don’t forget the footplate rides we’ve been able to offer at weekends, to provide some interest to locals and tourists alike. The nominal capacity for these was 38 people per day, but on our best day we accommodated 57 happy people, all paying £20 each. I’d call that a result!
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“Everyone here has been waiting for this day, and it’s marvellous to welcome our first full-line train this season. Nothing beats a fully joined-up railway, and that’s what we’re celebrating today.”
Eardington station has also been cut off, and station master Steve Downs said, “After the excitement of winning ‘Station of the Year’ at the HRA awards in February, we had the disappointment of not being able to open for the Spring Steam Gala, the first time that we've been closed for the event in decades.
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“Although our working parties have continued throughout the year, there's been a little bit of magic missing. One new volunteer who started in January had never seen a train pass through the station! It was fantastic to open Eardington over the weekend and welcome visitors back once more and we're looking forward to the Autumn Steam Gala.”
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
73082 ‘Camelot’ confirmed for Autumn Steam Gala
The Railway has confirmed that BR Standard Class 5 73082 ‘Camelot’ will join the line-up for the Autumn Steam Gala between 18 and 21 September.
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It’s the first time this locomotive has ever visited the Railway, and event organisers say it will work alongside the already-announced visitor Merchant Navy 35006 ‘Peninsular and Oriental S N & Co’, itself a first-time visitor to the line.​
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Managing director Gus Dunster said:
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“We’re delighted that the Bluebell Railway and the 73082 Camelot Locomotive Society have agreed to the loco’s appearance at our Gala.
'It looks like we’re in for a very exciting event, and it is set to be an impressive collection of first-time visitors. We have another two ‘new to the SVR’ guests in the pipeline, and we will confirm these as soon as we can.​
“One of our home fleet will also be making quite a splash during the Gala, as GWR Port Talbot Tank 813 will return to traffic after its overhaul, and with a brand-new tank, as NCB No 11. This is just a temporary livery as the loco will revert to its usual Great Western livery in due course. It’s going to be a rare opportunity to see it in the identity of No 11, without its brass safety valve bonnet and with its cabside number plates removed.”
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The event will also feature overnight running on the Friday and Saturday nights, in celebration of the SVR’s 60th anniversary. This will entail a huge operation for the Railway, which will operate continuously for a 60-hour stint.
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As well as 813 returning to service, other members of the SVR’s resident steam fleet will be in action, including 4930 ‘Hagley Hall’, 7714, 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’, 13268, 75069 and 1450 operating as an Autotrain.
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Advance tickets are discounted by up to 10% and great value multi-day rovers are available at svr.co.uk.
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​73802 'Camelot' will guest at the SVR's Autumn Steam Gala. HARRY BRADLEY
‘Knock-out’ main line support reunites the line
Thanks to an ambitious and unique joint volunteering effort by many companies across the rail sector, the final steps in reuniting the SVR were successfully achieved just over a week before the official reopening of the full line on 25 July.
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Following repairs to the damaged bridge and embankment at Mor Brook, 240ft of missing track had to be re-laid to reconnect the two ends of the line. With only a short timescale to complete the job, SVR director Steve Featherstone used his extensive network of main line railway contacts to secure volunteer people power, equipment, support services and consumables, in an astounding display of support for the SVR.
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On Wednesday 16 July, the ‘Orange Army Volunteer All Stars’ came together to complete the work, relaying the track in record time and at zero cost to the Railway, as Steve explained:
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“Whilst repairs to the embankment and bridge structure were covered largely by insurance, the track re-lay element wasn’t. It was clear we needed a very fast solution for our track re-lay, once we’d secured the visit of ‘Flying Scotsman’, and we had an incredibly short timescale to get things done. I started making phone calls to contacts in the rail industry and was completely knocked out by their willingness to get involved and the generosity of so many companies.
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“It’s been quite a job pulling all this together, but it has worked out tremendously well. The camaraderie and atmosphere on-site was amazing.”
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The companies taking part in the exercise included A P Webb, AWE Technologies, Balfour Beatty, Central Rail Systems Alliance, CML, Colas, Crown Group, Forestry, Rail & Civils Ltd, Ganymede Solutions, Interflon, Network Rail, Rail Power and Construction Ltd, Shannon Rail, Staytite, Vital and VP Rail.
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Without the assistance of this wide range of companies, the Railway’s own small permanent way gang would have taken around three weeks to achieve what this incredible collaboration accomplished in a matter of days. SVR managing director Gus Dunster added:
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“It has been great to see the whole railway community pitching in to help us. With ‘Flying Scotsman’ coming for our grand reopening, it was essential we got the track reinstated safely and quickly.
Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who played a part in the Orange Army Volunteer All Stars. What an achievement this has been!”
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To see a behind-the-scenes video of the work, visit youtube.com/watch .
A time-lapse of the process can also be seen at youtube.com.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
The SVR shone brightly at the Greatest Gathering
The Railway played an important role at the Greatest Gathering, held at Derby’s Litchurch Lane Works between 1 and 3 August, as part of the national Railway 200 celebrations.
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The event brought together more than 120 locomotives and trains from across the UK, including a number with recent links to the SVR, such as ‘Flying Scotsman’, ‘Scots Guardsman,’ and ‘Blue Peter’.
Also on show were modern classics including the Pendolino, and a selection of brand-new mainline vehicles making their public debut. It was one of the most ambitious railway events in decades, and the SVR made a strong impression.
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With so many railways and organisations represented, standing out from the crowd at the Greatest Gathering was a tough ask, but thanks to a lot of hard work, the SVR had visitors flocking to its exhibits.
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‘Hagley Hall’ and the Stanier Mogul were displayed in front of matching GWR and LMS carriages, offering a striking and authentic presence. Also featured were Class 50s from the Fifty Fund, and new-build locomotive 82045, blending history with future promise.
One simple but hugely effective idea was offering visitors the chance to blow the whistle on ‘Hagley Hall’ or the Stanier Mogul in exchange for a small donation; this drew crowds and generated smiles throughout the weekend.
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Alongside the SVR’s main stand, several SVR-linked groups were represented, including the DMU Group, Friends of Locomotive Hagley Hall, the Stanier Mogul Fund, the Western Locomotive Association, the 82045 Locomotive Trust and the 2857 Society. Neil Limbrick, who co-ordinated SVR’s presence, said:
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“It was a real team effort. From volunteers preparing vehicles and displays, to those staffing stands, guarding demonstration trains, running exhibits or helping with stewarding—this was an incredible showcase of what our community can achieve together. We wanted to make an impression, and we did.”
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The scale of the site took many by surprise with volunteers walking miles every day. In fact, on the Thursday set-up day, it took the SVR team over an hour to track down the 108 DMU! The unit had vanished into the sea of vehicles along with all the kit for the volunteers. However, the onsite camaraderie got the team through, with the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway coming to the rescue with a tea urn and endless brews; truly heroic behaviour.
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And it wasn’t all about the full-size exhibits – the Burlish Road O gauge ‘what if’ layout was also present. This fictional reimagining of Burlish Halt on the Bewdley to Stourport line is owned and run by SVR volunteers and was well received by visitors.
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The timing of the event was particularly valuable to the SVR, offering a platform to share the news of its full-line reopening with thousands of visitors, all whilst engaging a national audience with everything the Railway has to offer.
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“It was a weekend to be proud of,” add Neil. “Not just for what we showcased, but for how we showcased it.”
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Other News
Free return travel offer for summer
The SVR is celebrating its 60th anniversary by offering summer visitors the chance to come back again for free.
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The offer is available on all ‘Freedom of the Line’ tickets that are purchased online in advance, for travel up to and including Thursday 28 August this year.
The free offer must be redeemed by 4 September 2025 and is not valid for travel on Saturdays. Terms and conditions apply.
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Lewis Maddox, visitor engagement manager, said:
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“We’re delighted that we’ve now got our full 16-mile line back in operation, and passengers can hop on and off at any of the six beautifully presented heritage stations. There’s so much to see and do here, and with the offer of a free return visit, you don’t need to cram it all into just one day! We can’t wait to see everyone and whisk you back to the golden age of rail travel.”
There’s a whole host of summer activities for children to enjoy at The Engine House, Highley every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday during the school holidays. These are led by Perkins the Station Master and Junior the Apprentice, who’ll be on hand to keep young minds occupied with steam-themed games. Also returning by popular demand is Train Time UK’s stay ‘n’ play activity with a giant model train set amongst the full-size locomotives on display.
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On Saturdays in August between 1.00 and 2.30pm, adults and children aged eight and over can join the driver and fireman for a 10-minute footplate ride at Kidderminster. There’s an extra charge for this experience and pre-booking is advised although on-the-day rides are possible, subject to availability.
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There’s also a range of unmissable weekend events throughout the summer including the Vintage Transport Extravaganza on 9 and 10 August, Singin’ on the Train on 16 August and the Art & Craft Fayre at the Engine House on 23 and 24 August.
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To see what days the railway is open and to plan your visit, please go to svr.co.uk.
To steam or not to steam?
The timing of steam bans and the addition of diesel assistance have been very much on the minds of the people at the SVR tasked with making decisions on such matters, especially with the recent high-profile visit of ‘Flying Scotsman’. As operations manager Matt Robinson explains below, it’s always a matter of weighing up more variables than might at first be obvious:
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Why did we decide to add diesel assistance for the first day of operation for ‘Flying Scotsman’? Quite simply, because we did not want to risk further lineside fires on such an important day.
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Not only were we reopening our full line for the first time this year, but we’d also got more than a thousand people who’d paid a lot of money and expected a trip behind the world’s most famous loco.
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They would not have been impressed if we’d had to withdraw 60103 if it had been suspected of causing a lineside fire. Oh, and we also had the eyes of the media across all of our line that day too, plus a declared RED-RED fire alert status, the highest level. The risk of operating steam-only was simply too great.
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Let’s dig a little deeper into the risks. The biggest area of concern was and remains Eardington bank. Because of our partial line closure, we’d had no steam trains up there in over six months, leaving it chockfull of ready-to-burn lineside material.
It’s the biggest risk location on the Railway. So, we added the diesel immediately behind ‘Scotsman’ to enable the greatest amount of assistance going up Eardington bank.  
During the course of the first day of 60103’s running, we opened it up fully whilst climbing through Bewdley tunnel to see what sparks were emitted from the chimney. There was nothing of note, giving confidence to let the loco work a bit more. In consultation with the loco’s owners, we decided to remove diesel assistance for the coming days, and this went well.
However, we replaced the other weekend steam-hauled services with diesels to mitigate the risks of starting fires. Then, on Sunday, we allowed 7714 to run with diesel assistance, as it tends to be a fairly safe engine.
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As an added precaution, we had teams of trained lineside fire management volunteers present on the bank for three consecutive days, just in case.
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Early last week, the fire risk had dropped to RED, and we were able to lift the steam ban. All went well, until the weekend. Once again, we experienced significant lineside fires at multiple points on the line, requiring the attendance of the fire services. Some of these fires spread beyond our boundaries onto neighbouring properties. Passengers experienced delays of up to 90 minutes as a result, though we managed to make up some time later in the day.
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As we go to press, we’re in an Enhanced Red fire risk situation. This is above RED and slightly below RED-RED. As a responsible operator, we’ve therefore decided to run only one steam-hauled service per day, and have chosen 4930 ‘Hagley Hall’ as the most suitable locomotive to carry out the task on train S1. This arrangement is in place until further notice.
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It’s also worth noting that head of infrastructure Chris Bond met recently with Worcestershire Wildlife Trust to discuss the large lineside fire that recently engulfed the area around the Stourport Triangle. Unfortunately the fire caused significant damage not only to fencing but also to wildlife habitat.
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I hope that by taking some time to explain the reasoning behind our decisions, I’ve helped you to understand more about the difficulties we face. Imposing a steam ban is always a sensitive decision, as is adding diesel assistance. But sometimes, one or other of these options is the best way to make sure we can keep on operating rather than grinding to a halt completely.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
What's coming up?
Singin’ on the Train - hitting all the right notes
Following last year’s success, the Railway will be resonating with song on Saturday 16 August, as it welcomes a number of male voice choirs to entertain passengers.
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This one-of-a-kind event combines the stirring sounds of male voice choirs with the nostalgic charm of steam and heritage diesel locomotives.
Passengers can travel between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth, stepping off at stations along the way to enjoy live performances from celebrated male choirs.
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Lewis Maddox, visitor engagement manager, said:
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“Throughout the day, stations along the route will come alive with music, creating a festival atmosphere that celebrates the best of choral tradition. You might also want to stop off at The Engine House at Highley, where real ales and hearty pub fare will be served in a relaxed setting overlooking the Railway.”
All-day travel is available with a ‘Freedom of the Line’ ticket, and Short-Journey tickets are also on offer. Standard fares apply, and tickets can be purchased in advance or on the day.
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As the sun sets, the event continues with a special evening choir concert on the concourse at Kidderminster Station.
Seven choirs will come together for a powerful and uplifting performance under the station’s striking glass roof. Hot food and drinks will be available throughout the evening from the award-winning King and Castle pub.
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See website for performance times and to buy tickets - https://svr.co.uk/event/singin-on-the-train/
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A male voice choir in full song outside the Railwayman's Arms at Bridgnorth station. DAVID BISSETT
Christmas is coming!
It might be the height of summer, but preparations for Christmas at the Severn Valley Railway are already steaming ahead. In a surprise mid-July appearance, Santa Claus himself was spotted at Kidderminster Town station, taking a break from the North Pole to inspect the Railway’s festive plans and catch a glimpse of the iconic Flying Scotsman before its departure.
This year, the SVR is launching two brand-new Christmas experiences - Santa’s Steam Specials from Kidderminster and The Elf Express from Bridgnorth - in partnership with the acclaimed Wise Owl Theatre Company.
This collaboration marks a bold new direction for the festive season, bringing a fresh feel to the Railway’s most important revenue-generating events of the year.
“We know how vital Christmas is to the Railway’s income,” said Lewis Maddox, visitor engagement manager. “We’re up against stiff competition, and that’s why we’ve taken a new approach this year.
'By working with Wise Owl, we’re creating something truly unique that will stand out in a crowded market and give our audiences an unforgettable experience.”
Wise Owl are drawing inspiration from the Railway itself to craft The Great Christmas Train Rescue, a fully immersive theatrical journey featuring Santa, Polly the polar bear, and the villainous Victor Von Sneeze. With puppetry designed by War Horse’s Matthew Forbes, the show promises to dazzle and wow audiences.
Meanwhile, The Elf Express will bring festive cheer to Bridgnorth, with a merry band of elves helping families get Christmas-ready through interactive performances and on-board fun.
Both events run on weekends from 29 November and on Christmas Eve, with relaxed performances of The Great Christmas Train Rescue on 7, 14 and 21 December and tickets are on sale at svr.co.uk.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Art and Craft Fayre at The Engine House, Highley
Local suppliers will be at The Engine House, Highley with a range of hand-made goods on the weekend of 23 and 24 August. Stalls will be nestled amongst the Railway’s full-size locomotives and carriages on display.
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The Fayre takes place from 10.45am – 4.30pm each day, with last entry at 4pm.
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Entry to the Art and Craft Fayre is free, and as there’s no on-site parking, the best way to get to The Engine House is by heritage train.
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‘Freedom of the Line’ tickets allow travel along the full length of the line for an entire day, or you can choose a short journey to Highley from either Kidderminster or Bridgnorth.
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See the exhibitor list and plan your visit at svr.co.uk.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Vintage delights await at the annual Transport Extravaganza
A full weekend of heritage trains and classic vehicles await at the annual Vintage Transport Extravaganza on 9 and 10 August.
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Throughout the weekend, visitors can travel behind beautifully restored steam and diesel locomotives, hopping off at stations along the line to explore a stunning collection of vintage vehicles. From timeless motorcars and motorcycles to gleaming buses, tractors, lorries and more, each station becomes a showcase of transport history.
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Lewis Maddox, visitor engagement manager, said, “This event is a real celebration of everything we love about summer at the Severn Valley Railway. There’s something truly magical about the mix of heritage trains, classic vehicles, and the buzz of families enjoying a day out together. It’s the perfect way to experience the sights, sounds and spirit of a bygone era.”
Perfect for families, classic vehicle fans, and anyone looking for a great day out, the event captures the spirit of summers gone by. There’s plenty to see and do, with vehicle displays open from 10am to 4pm each day, subject to availability. Station cafés will be open for refreshments, and picnic spots along the line offer the ideal place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
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Normal fares apply, with Freedom of the Line and Short Journey tickets available to purchase in advance or on the day. Visitors are encouraged to plan their trip using the dedicated timetables for the weekend at https://svr.co.uk/event/vintage-transport-extravaganza/
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Road and rail power side-by-side at the Vintage Transport Extravaganza. SVR
Kidderminster quiz-night fundraiser for Ukraine
The Valley Suite at Kidderminster Town station is the venue for a quiz night on Friday 12 September, as a fundraiser for local aid charity, Wyre Forest 2 Ukraine. There’s an open invitation to teams to take part in the fun, and there’ll be access to the King & Castle bar, of course!
The charity recently had their Mitsubishi 4x4 pickup painted by volunteers at Bridgnorth Paint Shop - see Branch Lines May issue. The vehicle is being converted to become a front-line ambulance for medical teams in the northeast of Ukraine.
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The quiz will be the third the charity has held, with all the funds raised going directly to aid for Ukraine.
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Bewdley-based ‘Wyre Forest 2 Ukraine’ has been supporting the Ukrainian people with deliveries of humanitarian aid since the Russian invasion in 2022. Several of their members have also hosted Ukrainian refugees in their own homes. They have so far raised over £10,000 for aid items, including generators, battery-powered lamps, and medical items, including hand-held scanners to be used by front-line medics to locate shrapnel in casualties.
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The charity will be equipping it with stretchers, lights and other equipment for its new role, and has recently purchased a Land Rover Discovery for use by medical teams in the country. In the next few weeks, the vehicles will be loaded with essential aid items and driven to Ukraine by volunteers from the charity. There is a list of urgently needed items on the charity’s Facebook page.
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To take part in the quiz, contact Steven on 07889 423526 or email stevenmarksmith1994@gmail.com
SVR Stourbridge Branch meetings
The SVR Stourbridge Branch has announced its programme of talks for the rest of the year, all of which are held at the Bonded Warehouse, Canal Street, Stourbridge, DY8 4LU.
The meetings are always on the first Wednesday of the month, and start at 7.30pm.
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On 3 September, Ned Williams presents his talk entitled Trains I’ve caught, and trains I’ve missed.
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The following month, on 1 October, the subject is The West of England, presented by Michael Clemens.
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Then on 5 November, it’s The Bishops Castle Railway, presented by John Rimmer.
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And finally, on 3 December, Bob Dunn will speak about the SVR Motive Power Depot.
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Everyone is welcome and there’s an admission charge of £3.
Across the Railway
Traction and rolling stock vacancies
The SVR is currently recruiting for two roles in the traction and rolling stock department, a paid bodywork technician.
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Primarily based in Kidderminster, the bodywork technician will carry out the examination, maintenance, overhaul and repair of heritage rolling stock to a high standard. For further information, visit svr.co.uk/career/ and also view the Bodywork Technician job description. The closing date for applications is 18 August.
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Staff painting a carriage in the C&W workshops. MARTIN WHITE
SVR Wiki, charting the past, present and future of the Railway
Behind every loco movement, carriage number and station renovation lies a story, and for over a decade, the SVR Wiki has quietly built itself into one of the most comprehensive records of the Severn Valley Railway's history, infrastructure and operation.
Now, after a major behind-the-scenes refresh, it’s ready for the next chapter.
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“The SVR Wiki is something really special,” said Neil Limbrick, who has taken over as custodian of the site. “It’s an independent, factual archive of everything from locomotives to signal boxes to special events. What makes it powerful is that it’s created by volunteers for volunteers, and anyone else who wants to understand more about how the Railway works.”​
The SVR Wiki was originally created and developed by Graham Phillips, who carefully laid the groundwork for what has become a vital resource. “Graham deserves enormous credit,” Neil continued. “He’s the one who built it all up, and I was very fortunate that he trusted me to take it forward.”
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Since taking on the custodianship, Neil has overseen two full hosting migrations, each time moving closer to a more secure, modern platform.
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“We’ve now upgraded to the latest version of MediaWiki, the same system that powers Wikipedia,” he explained. “That wasn’t easy. And while the technical side has taken some work, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have the support of Robin Childs, who’s been a key editor throughout. He’s made sure nothing’s been lost in the transition and helped ensure the new version is an improvement in both content and clarity.”
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Importantly, the SVR Wiki remains independent of the Railway’s official organisations. “That’s a deliberate decision,” Neil added. “It means we can offer an impartial, consistent view, always factual, never opinionated. We can allow contributors to work freely without needing to navigate organisational red tape.”
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But to keep growing, the Wiki needs help.
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“We need new contributors now more than ever,” said Neil. “Whether you’re passionate about rolling stock, buildings, heritage, operations or financial history, or if you’ve got a niche interest and an eye for accuracy, we’d love you to get involved. Even small contributions make a difference.”
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The SVR Wiki isn’t just a static website either – it’s proving useful for other groups across the line. “A great example is hamptonloadestation.org.uk,” Neil noted. “They’ve embedded Wiki pages directly into their site, which saves them having to update the same content in multiple places. It’s a brilliant use of the platform.”
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With a strong foundation in place, the SVR Wiki is looking to the future, inviting more members of the SVR community to help tell the story.
“If you know something others don’t, write it down,” Neil concluded. “The Wiki is here to preserve knowledge before it’s lost. And the more voices we have, the stronger that legacy will be.”
A generous gift from a passionate supporter
The widow of a passionate SVR supporter visited Kidderminster last month to present a cheque to the SVR Resilience Fund, from proceeds of the sale of her late husband’s railway-related collection.
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Angela Collingwood presented the cheque for £20,000 on behalf of her late husband Nigel. Receiving the donation on behalf of the Severn Valley Railway Company Limited, which administers the SVR Resilience Fund, chairman Diane Malyon said:
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“Nigel visited and supported the Severn Valley line for many years, and I know he derived a great deal of pleasure from his association with us. We are extremely grateful for this generous donation, which is going to help secure the Railway’s resilience for the future."
The monies were raised by SVR supporters David Amias and Roger Scanlon from the sale of Nigel’s 0 Gauge model railway collection. Nigel left this to them in his Will, with the stipulation they could retain everything but if any items were sold the proceeds should go to a worthy cause.
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With Angela’s permission, it was agreed the majority of the proceeds should go to the SVR. Sizeable donations will also be made to some locomotive restoration groups on the SVR and various other charities.
​​Nigel Collingwood was an SVR member and a passionate supporter of the railway. When he married Angela in April 2003, their wedding reception was held on the SVR in a GWR inspection saloon, hauled by 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’. Nigel was finance director for H Samuel Jewellers and after retirement established an educational video company. He died suddenly in August 2024.
Roger Scanlon added, “David and I have spent the last year disposing of the collection. We’re delighted that many of the models have been purchased by fellow volunteers on the Railway. A number of the models will be on display at the O Gauge Get Together event at The Engine House in Highley on 18 and 19 October. We are sure that Nigel would be delighted with this outcome.”
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
S&T tackles block bell repairs
Gary Essex explains more about the bell system used by the Railway’s signalmen to communicate with each other, and how the S&T team has been making improvements to the system:
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You may be aware that our signal boxes communicate to each other by means of a bell. A key tapper is pressed in one signal box and a corresponding bell sounds in the other signal box, and vice versa. The communication takes the form of a code.
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For example, three quick rings followed by a pause then a single ring means “Is line clear for ordinary passenger train?” The answer is determined by the response.
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However, if the bell does not operate fast enough, the sent code is not received correctly. The block bell from Bewdley South at Kidderminster has recently been unreliable; the electrical contacts that make the connection to send the ring degrade due to sparks between the contacts, and this makes the bells miss rings.
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The S&T team have cleaned the internal switch contacts in the bell several times, which restores correct operation, but the contacts slowly degrade once more. A longer-term solution was needed.
When the coil in the bell (or inductor) is switched off, sparking occurs due to a phenomenon called inductive kickback. Coils resist changes in current. When you suddenly interrupt the current as the switch disconnects, the coil tries to keep the current flowing. This causes the coil to generate a high voltage spike in the opposite direction—sometimes thousands of volts! That spike jumps across the switch contacts and over time causes damage to the contact surfaces.
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When these bell systems were designed back in the day, diode technology was not available. A diode is an electronic component that acts like a one-way valve for electric current. It allows current to flow in one direction (forward) and blocks it in the opposite direction (reverse). This characteristic is very helpful; when a diode is connected across a coil it does not conduct when the coil is energised with a positive voltage but will conduct when the coil generates a negative voltage when it’s switched off. This has the effect of significantly reducing the size of the spark across the switch contacts, thus extending their operating life.
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The S&T department have now fitted diodes across the operating coils which should extend the life of the internal switch contacts and improve reliability of the bell operation, extending the working life of this instrument, which is between 70 and 90 years old!
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Rolling stock
Six decades of slumber set to end for 4150
GWR 2-6-2 Prairie tank 4150 is edging ever closer to completion, passing the first in a series of tests that will close out the SVR’s final chapter in the story of the famous Barry scrapyard.
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At midday on 4 August, 4150 hit a major milestone when its boiler successfully passed its mandatory hydraulic exam, carried out by an independent surveyor.
Following this significant step forward, the boiler can now be prepared for initial (out of the frames) steam testing. Then the surveyor will carry out the next major step, a working pressure steam test. Bridgnorth shedmaster Martin White said:
“This is a significant step towards the return to steam of this ex-Barry scrapyard loco. With the successful hydraulic test completed, ESMP paid staff, and 4150 Group volunteers can move onto steam testing.
Following that, there is an amazing collection of new steam pipework that has been fabricated on site at Bridgnorth, which is ready for fitting once the boiler is installed.”
A locomotive with strong local connections, 4150 entered service at Stourbridge Junction shed, from where it would have run on much of what is now the SVR. Withdrawn in 1965, 4150 is also the final still-to-be-restored engine on the SVR that has been rescued from Woodham Brothers’ scrapyard at Barry. This year marks 60 years since the locomotive last steamed, and that long period of slumber looks set to end very soon.
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Once the tests are successfully completed, the boiler will then be fitted onto the locomotive and final reassembly can commence. Watch this space for more news!
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4150 passes its boiler test. PETE MADDICKS
A welcome return to ‘business as usual’ at Bridgnorth MPD
After months of reporting on the upheaval caused by the Mor Brook landslip, and its effect on Bridgnorth, the return to ‘business as usual’ allows time for a full update from the works, as volunteer shedmaster Martin White reports:
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Visitors to Bridgnorth may spot 34027 ‘Taw Valley’ in the MPD yard, currently stabled at the rear of platform 2. The loco boiler is stripped internally and awaiting removal so that work can start on it in the boiler shop.
Mechanically, the recent focus of attention has been on the tender, where the wheelsets have been removed and sent away for tyre turning. Volunteers are currently undertaking the mucky job of cleaning and scraping the tender’s underside, ahead of it being painted.
Work on the tender body, to replace platework and return the coal space to the more traditional size, is largely completed.
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Meanwhile 34027’s BR standard class 3 cousin, new-build 82045, has had many of its larger components refitted. This was done in time for 82045 to attend the Rail 200 Greatest Gathering event at Derby, giving the appearance of how complete the locomotive is.
One major component deliberately not fitted is the right-hand tank, which allows that side of the boiler to be seen, complete with the wording ‘Built by Severn Valley Railway, Bridgnorth’.
Work on various fronts has been continuing by the loco’s volunteer group, including the machining of motion parts, manufacture of cladding, and the preparation of the superheater header for hydraulic testing.
Saddle Tank 813 has taken some significant steps towards returning to traffic. Its boiler has been steamed, albeit as a static test. Numerous components and fittings are required to be fitted before it can move under its own power. These are currently being prepared ready for refitting.
Temporary paint-work is being applied, sufficient for its planned appearance at the Autumn Steam Gala.
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At last, the seemingly never-ending story of the contract overhaul of ‘Dunrobin’ is starting to draw to a close. While it seems that components are being added to the rolling chassis on a weekly basis, it’s actually the valve gear that’s currently the focus of attention.
The new flange, body, and top of the boiler’s steam dome were delivered to the boiler shop on ‘reopening day’, bringing the day when the boiler is tested a little closer.
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Continuing on the subject of testing, GWR Prairie tank 4150 successfully passed its hydraulic exam, bringing it ever closer to completion. A full update on 4150 is featured elsewhere in this month’s Branch Lines.
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The Engineering Services paid staff are involved to some extent in many of the projects listed above, but also engaged in smaller contract machining jobs as well as, of course, routine maintenance of the service fleet.
Volunteer staff continually provide routine support such as carrying out boiler washouts, most recently on 7714. Added to this there are of course the occasional unexpected jobs, such as emptying by hand the water from the loco pit when both the installed pump and portable pump failed. And all this with smiles on their faces!
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Wheelchair-accessible coach rolls towards completion
BR-built LMS-design Corridor Brake Third 26921 has emerged from the paint shop at Bridgnorth, resplendent in a new coat of paint!
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After years of sitting forlorn and dilapidated, it is only fitting that 26921 should be given its moment to shine again, and the newly applied LMS maroon livery is certainly gleaming.
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Acquired in 1968 by RCJ Wilcox, a member of the fledgling SVR, the LMS-designed coach had a fairly unremarkable history prior to preservation.
However, following preservation on the SVR it had its moment in the spotlight when it journeyed to Rainhill in 1980.
There, alongside other SVR rolling stock, it had the honour of participating in the cavalcades for the Rocket 150 celebrations, marking the anniversary of the opening of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway.
This moment of fame however was sadly short lived, and even worse, was followed by disuse and obscurity. In fact, a period of some three decades passed before the volunteer Carriage & Wagon team at Bridgnorth were able to turn their attentions towards it. Significant work has since been undertaken on 26921, which is being converted into a fully wheelchair-accessible carriage for the LMS set.
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In addition to the smart new paint job, the bodywork repairs and interior refit are drawing towards a conclusion, and next on the agenda are the bogies and brakes. This work will also include removal of asbestos on the underneath by professional contractors. Head of traction & rolling Stock engineering Martin White said:
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“The bodywork and the interiors should hopefully be finished later this year and the mechanical overhaul to bogies and brakes will then need to be undertaken at Kidderminster. It is hoped that the carriage will be returned to revenue-earning operation in 2026.”
Funding for the work has been provided by the Bridgnorth C&W group’s own fundraising efforts as well as the SVR Charitable Trust and SVR (Holdings).
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LMS 26921 fresh out of the paint shop at Bridgnorth. ALAN GWILT
People
New faces at the SVRCT
There are two new additions to the Charitable Trust team.
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Rachel Heath joins the board as a trustee. A senior main line railway manager, Rachel has spent 23 years in the industry. Currently she is Network Rail’s operations director for Wales & Borders. Managing a team of 550, from signallers to response staff to controllers, she’s also responsible for seasonal preparedness and delivery, and operations risk.
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As a child, she spent many years at the SVR and her brother was an active volunteer.
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“I'm delighted to have been chosen to be on the board of trustees. Being a Wyre Forest resident since early childhood, the SVR has always had a special place in my life, as a child with my Dad and brother’s enthusiasm, and more recently with my own son. I'm truly honoured to now be able to give something back using the experience I've gained in my career and look forward to carrying on with the great work the trustees already do.”
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Clive Thompson is the new grants coordinator and will work with heads of departments to identify fundable projects that meet the CT’s objectives. He’ll liaise with applicants, advising and helping them to complete paperwork and monitor the progress of live projects.
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“The role is a voluntary one,” said CT chair Judith Meredith, “And Clive brings with him an in-depth knowledge of the SVR from his time on the Railway. He has some very relevant work experience which he can bring to this new post, and we are very pleased to welcome him on board.
Rachel Heath joins the board of the SVR Charitable Trust
v1 7th August 2025
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Any opinions or views expressed in this newsletter are entirely the opinions of the contributors, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Directors of Severn Valley Railway (Holdings) PLC. which owns the Severn Valley Railway, Severn Valley Railway Company Limited, the members of which are responsible for its operation, or the Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust.