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August 2026
Summer evening at Crossing Cottage. Bob Green
Welcome to your latest edition of Branch Lines!
The heat is still on, although perhaps not quite in the way we’d like! With the hot, dry weather continuing, the SVR has extended its ‘steam ban’ until the end of August.
But there’s plenty of positive news to enjoy in this month’s Branch Lines.
We’ve got details of the final two visiting locomotives for the Autumn Steam Gala, while the SVR Charitable Trust’s fantastic Raise the Roof campaign has powered past its quarter-way milestone, with more than £250,000 now raised towards the £1 million target.
We’re also looking ahead to the exciting eight-week Bewdley Express commuter trial, which gets under way on 1 September.
The new service will connect passengers at Bewdley with the main line at Kidderminster, opening up the possibility of a direct rail commute towards Birmingham, Worcester and beyond.
If the trial proves successful, there’s the potential for the service to become a permanent fixture.
Elsewhere, we report on the opening of Coffee Express at Kidderminster Town station, celebrate the return of the ‘Mighty Mogul’ to the main line and bring you plenty more news and stories from across the SVR.
We hope you enjoy your August edition of Branch Lines!
Lesley Carr, editor
The Branch Lines team is Lesley Carr, Karen Crick, 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?
SVR’s Raise the Roof appeal reaches quarter-million-pound milestone
The SVR Charitable Trust's Raise the Roof appeal has passed a major fundraising milestone, with £254,558 now raised towards its £1 million target in just over two months.
The appeal, launched in early June, aims to fund the construction of a heritage Great Western Railway-style platform canopy at Kidderminster Town station, completing the original vision for the railway's award-winning southern terminus.
The Charitable Trust has thanked the hundreds of supporters whose generosity has helped the appeal reach over a quarter of its overall target so quickly.
Donations from individuals, businesses and supporters across the heritage railway community have combined with a significant recent boost from a legacy left to the Charitable Trust.
The completed canopy will provide improved shelter for passengers and create an impressive architectural feature.
Part of the structure will be built using authentic salvaged steelwork from the former Great Western Railway station at Wolverhampton Low Level, preserving an important piece of railway heritage while enhancing the visitor experience for generations to come.
Judith Meredith, Chair of the SVRCT, said:
"To have reached £254,558 in such a short time is a tremendous achievement, and we're enormously grateful to every single person who has supported the appeal so far.
"Whether someone has made a small donation or a much larger contribution, every gift is helping to bring this exciting project closer to reality.
"We're also incredibly thankful for the remarkable legacy that has recently boosted the appeal. It is a powerful reminder of the lasting difference that gifts in wills can make.
"The kindness and foresight of one supporter is now helping to create something that will benefit the railway and its visitors for generations, and we cannot thank them enough for that extraordinary act of generosity.
"Although we've reached a significant milestone, there's still a long way to go. We'd encourage everyone who loves the Severn Valley Railway to consider supporting the appeal. Together, we really can complete this iconic project and give Kidderminster Town station the magnificent finishing touch it deserves."
Gus Dunster, the Railway’s CEO, added:
"The response to the Raise the Roof appeal has been exceptional and demonstrates just how much affection people have for the Severn Valley Railway.
"This canopy is far more than a practical improvement. It will complete a vision that has been decades in the making, transforming the experience for our visitors from the moment they arrive. Kidderminster is the front door to the railway, and this project will create a gateway that truly reflects the quality, heritage and ambition of everything beyond it.
"We're delighted with the progress made so far and hope this milestone will encourage even more people to become part of the story."
For further information about the Raise the Roof campaign or to donate, visit svrtrust.org.uk.
To watch a recording of the Raise the Roof question and answer session, please visit Raise the Roof Q&A Session.mp4
Heritage SVR trains to carry commuters in unique rail link trial
From 1 September, the SVR will be playing a key role in an exciting new partnership that could help shape the future of rail travel in the region.
Working alongside West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) and West Midlands Railway, the Railway will operate the heritage section of an eight-week trial commuter service linking Bewdley with Birmingham.
The trial, which runs on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, will see passengers travel between Bewdley and Kidderminster on SVR-operated heritage trains before connecting with West Midlands Railway services to Birmingham Snow Hill.
Main line rail tickets will be accepted throughout the journey, making this one of the first arrangements of its kind in the UK.
Two morning departures will leave Bewdley at 6.40am and 7.40am, with corresponding return services from Birmingham in the late afternoon and early evening.
The project will assess demand for improved rail connections between Bewdley and the wider West Midlands network.
If successful, it could support the case for selected West Midlands Railway services to be extended beyond Kidderminster to Bewdley in the future.
For the SVR, the trial is an opportunity to demonstrate how heritage railways can contribute to modern transport while showcasing the professionalism of the Railway’s staff and volunteers.
Chief executive officer Gus Dunster said: "This is a hugely exciting opportunity for the Severn Valley Railway. Not only does it allow us to support an important regional transport initiative, it also sees our railway fulfilling the purpose it was originally built for by carrying everyday passengers between Bewdley and Kidderminster.
"It is a highly unusual arrangement that will see main line rail passengers completing part of their journey on a heritage railway using their normal rail tickets. We're delighted to be providing the trains and crews for the heritage section of the journey, using our Diesel Multiple Unit for many of the services and, where it fits with our existing operations, steam-hauled return trains on Wednesdays and Thursdays."
The initiative has also been welcomed by the West Midlands Combined Authority, West Midlands Rail Executive, West Midlands Railway and Bewdley Town Council, all of whom see the trial as an innovative way to improve regional connectivity, reduce reliance on road travel and support the local economy.
Further details, including final timetables and ticketing arrangements, will be announced before services begin.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Temporary ‘steam ban’
The Railway suspended steam services from 4 August and extended this measure earlier this week, following a review by the Extreme Weather Advisory Team (EWAT).
The continuing hot, dry weather and lack of substantial rain being forecast, mean that the fire risk remains at RED-RED and diesel-only services will continue until 31 August.
Before the ‘steam ban’ was initially introduced, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service had attended a fire on an embankment north of Bewdley.
Train services were halted at their request and unfortunately delays followed.
The Railway thanked the Fire and Rescue Service for their swift response and professionalism, as well as its own volunteers and staff for their help in managing the incident.
It also apologised to passengers who were affected by the delays, as well as people living nearby who were inconvenienced.
Victoria Evans, head of commercial & customer service said:
“The EWAT’s decision to continue the suspension of steam services reflects the prolonged period of exceptionally hot and dry weather, together with the continued lack of significant rainfall in the forecast. The lineside fire on 2 August served as a reminder of the challenges these conditions present, but our decisions have been based on the wider weather situation and our responsibility to minimise the risk of further lineside fires.
“Passenger services will continue to operate using our heritage diesel fleet. We're incredibly fortunate to have these locomotives available, as they allow us to continue welcoming visitors while significantly reducing the fire risk. Without them, we could have found ourselves in the position of having to suspend passenger services altogether.
“We appreciate this will be disappointing news for everyone who loves seeing steam locomotives in action, and know many of our volunteers and staff will share that disappointment. However, the safety of our passengers, staff, volunteers, neighbours and the wider community must always come first.”
The EWAT is continuing to monitor conditions closely and will review the situation on an ongoing basis. Once weather conditions permit, and it is safe to do so, we look forward to welcoming our steam locomotives back into service.
One of the diesel locomotives drafted into service during the 'steam ban' is Class 46 46045. Andy Taylor
4930 involved in incident at Bridgnorth
An incident involving the Severn Valley Railway's 4930 Hagley Hall occurred at Bridgnorth motive power depot on the evening of Sunday 12 July. Fortunately, no one was injured.
The Railway informed the Office of Rail and Road and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch before commencing its own investigation, which continues.
Chief executive officer Gus Dunster said:
“The locomotive was travelling back light engine from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth and for reasons that we don’t yet fully understand, it came into contact with the shed doors at the front of Bridgnorth MPD, and the motion was such that the tender went through the doors and the locomotive came to rest at that point.
“As with any railway accident, a multitude of factors can combine to cause it and so it would be premature to say we know what happened. The investigation is ongoing.
'It took us the best part of a week to recover the locomotive as the tender was no longer on the rails. Before recovery, we had visits from the insurance loss adjusters and a structural examination of the integrity of the building.
“The loco is now inside the building for a detailed technical examination. Once we understand the findings of that, we’ll be closer to knowing what the cause was. We can’t yet give a timescale for the locomotive’s return to service.”
4930 Hagley Hall awaiting watering at Kidderminster earlier in the season. Tony Carwithen
Coffee Express open at Kidderminster
On 29 July, the Railway opened its new Coffee Express grab-and-go refreshment outlet at Kidderminster Town station, with the Mayor of Kidderminster, Councillor Shazu Miah, with Mayoress Farjana Khan, performing the opening ceremony.
Located at the front of the station building, Coffee Express is serving hot and cold drinks together with freshly made snacks, providing a convenient new option for commuters, students, local residents and visitors.
Situated just yards from Kidderminster's main line station, the new outlet has been created to serve both passengers travelling through the town and those visiting the SVR, offering quality refreshments in a distinctive heritage railway setting.
Open on weekdays from 6.00am to 9.00am and from 3.00pm to 6.00pm, Coffee Express serves bean-to-cup coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cold drinks, filled cobs, pastries and doughnuts.
Victoria Evans, the SVR's head of commercial and customer service, said:
"This is an exciting new venture for the SVR and one that helps us connect with the wider Kidderminster community.
"Whether you're catching a train, heading to college, commuting to work, visiting the Railway or simply passing by, Coffee Express offers great quality refreshments in a convenient location. We hope it becomes a regular stop for local people as well as our visitors.
"As well as bringing new life to the front of our station, every purchase helps support the work of the SVR, so it's a great way for people to enjoy a coffee while also supporting one of Britain's best-loved heritage railways."
Councillor Shazu Miah officially declared Coffee Express open before meeting staff and sampling the new facilities. He said:
“I grew up and still live in this area, and I’ve passed the SVR on my way to school and then catching the mainline train to Birmingham and beyond. I can see how valuable this service is going to be and I’m very proud to be here on its opening day.”
Coffee Express represents another step in the SVR's commitment to making Kidderminster Town station an attractive gateway to both the heritage railway and the town, while providing a valuable new service for the local community.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
A window to the past at the Autumn Steam Gala
The SVR has completed the line-up for its Autumn Steam Gala, with the announcement of the final two visiting locomotives.
Chosen to offer gala visitors an evocative glimpse into the line's pre-preservation days, GWR Small Prairie No 5526 and BR Standard Class 4 Tank No 80097 will visit the Railway between 17 and 20 September.
They join an impressive line-up of guest locomotives for one of the SVR's most anticipated events of the year.
Popular tank engine, GWR Small Prairie No 5526, will make a fitting companion to the SVR's own newly overhauled GWR Large Prairie No 4150, which is expected to make its gala debut following restoration.
The 45xx and 4575 class Prairie tanks were synonymous with branch line operations across much of the Great Western Railway network, making No 5526 an ideal addition to this year's pre-preservation theme. It will only be the second time the locomotive has visited the SVR.
The final locomotive to be announced, BR Standard Class 4 80097 is an authentic addition to this year's pre-preservation theme.
Appearing in classic British Railways black livery, 80097 represents the type of locomotive that would have been a familiar sight on the Severn Valley during the late 1950s and early 1960s.
80097 also has one of preservation's most inspiring stories. Having spent just 11 years in BR service before withdrawal in 1965, it then languished for nearly two decades in the Barry scrapyard.
Its return to steam was achieved thanks to more than 34 years of repairs and restoration by more than 200 volunteers.
The extensive project included the construction of a completely new boiler before the locomotive finally entered service on the East Lancashire Railway in 2019, where it has since become a firm favourite with visitors.
Gus Dunster, the SVR's chief executive officer, said
“We're delighted to welcome Nos 5526 and 80097 to the Autumn Steam Gala and are very grateful to our friends at the South Devon Railway, the East Lancashire Railway and 80097’s owners, the Bury Standard 4 Group for making these visits possible.
“Our aim this year is to transport visitors back to the Severn Valley of old, and we’ve put together a roster that helps us do exactly that. Seeing a Small Prairie working alongside our own beautifully restored Large Prairie No 4150 will be a sight not to be missed!
“Representing the BR era, 80097 is a remarkable symbol of endurance, determination and volunteer dedication. After spending twice as long in the Barry scrapyard as it did in British Railways service, it is wonderful to see it back doing exactly what it was built for, and we're looking forward to seeing it working on the Severn Valley.”
5526 and 80097 join previously announced visitors Ivatt Class 2MT No 41313 and GWR Pannier Tank No 9681 to feature alongside home-fleet steam locomotives in an intensive timetable between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth.
Further information and advance tickets are available at svr.co.uk.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Other News
Summer Mixed Traction Festival - adapt and overcome!
The SVR’s 2026 Summer Gala kicked off the school holiday period, with a mixed traction event that ran over the weekend 18 – 19 July.
It was back in 1978 when the SVR’s first ever summer gala event was held in early June of that year to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Kidderminster Loop Line, and a summer event continued annually until 1990. Largely featuring the home fleet plus a guest or two, the spirit of these events was honoured in this year’s offering, which saw the little engines taking the limelight.
The varied timetable included both full line trips and short workings, with guests Neilson & Co No 2937 and Kerr Stuart No 4388 joining the home fleet in an intensive timetable that offered visitors the chance to experience a wide range of motive power.
Unfortunately, advertised visitor Holly Bank No 3 was failed ahead of the event.
Following strip-down and examination, the issue proved to be with the regulator and with the ESMP team already hard at work on maintaining and repairing the home fleet to ensure the running of SVR services, resources were not available to repair it in time for the event.
However, the locomotive still got its moment in the spotlight, appearing on static display at Kidderminster for the duration of the event, where it basked in the glorious sunshine. The timetable was adjusted to allow 813 to take over Hollybank No 3’s services, and the trains ran smoothly and largely to timetable.
Worthy of note also is SVR stalwart, GWR 7714. Recently requiring maintenance on its injectors, 7714 subsequently failed with grate issues the week before, but was repaired in time to steam for the gala weekend.
Chief executive officer Gus Dunster said:
“If there’s one thing the SVR has shown we can do time and time again, it’s adapt and overcome!
“Thanks to the hard-working of our staff and volunteers, particularly the team at ESMP who had a very busy week ensuring that we had enough motive power for the weekend, we were able to overcome the operational challenges in the run up to the event.
“Our inaugural Summer Gala for the 21st century was a great way to kick off the main school holiday period. The combination of smaller steam and diesel locomotives, together with the ever-popular opening of Eardington station, captured the imagination of visitors of all ages.
“As always, thanks to all our staff and volunteers for all they do to make these events happen.”
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Little engines leave a big impression
The SVR’s Summer Gala was a different affair to the usual gala events, placing the smaller locomotives front and centre. Branch Lines correspondent Nicky Fox was there with her two-year-old daughter and sends us her personal impressions of the event:
The event was attended by a wide demographic, varying from young families to enthusiasts of all ages, and of course, many canine companions.
When attending the galas to report back for Branch Lines, I often have my toddler in tow, and of all the events I’ve brought her to, it’s safe to say that this was the one that engaged her the most.
After obligingly posing for photos with Holly Bank No 3 (sadly was not in steam for the event, but a great static exhibit) Branch Lines Toddler (BLT) was more interested in craning her neck over my shoulder to look in the cab than at the camera, so the opportunity was taken to continue the education started by the Reverend Awdry and introduce her to the controls of a locomotive.
Setting aside the usual delights provided by the Railway, (smell of smoke, sounds of whistles and playing spot the Rhino as we pass by the Safari park) on this occasion, Bewdley station was the place to be.
Here BLT could watch guest locomotives Neilson & Co No 2937 and Kerr Stuart ‘Witch’ class No 4388 serviced between trips.
I suspect BLT would have been happy to shuttle backwards and forwards between Bewdley and Kidderminster all day to watch her favourite two locomotives uncouple and run around, but alas for BLT, her mother wanted the chance to see the other locomotives in action.
The opportunity to jump from steam-hauled trains to diesel definitely brought variety to the day and inspired by the sight of Holly Bank No 3 on the platform, BLT and her personal assistant, (aka Dad) were excited to get up close and personal with the locomotives on display in The Engine House, which allowed yours truly a little time to enjoy passing trains from the height of the balcony.
We were disappointed to miss GWR 813 in action, as that was down at Bridgnorth valiantly stepping in for Holly Bank No 3 on the Hampton Loade shuttles, however the excitement of the day meant that BLT’s energy was waning.
So, after a final opportunity to watch her two favourite engines uncouple and run round, BLT waved many loud and cheerful goodbyes to each locomotive, (including those trundling along the Coalyard Miniature Railway), and it’s safe to say, that although this event promoted the little engines of our railway history, it made a massive impression on the Branch Lines Toddler!
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
The last AGM of SVRG
Saturday 18 July saw what is expected to be the last AGM of the SVR Company Limited (also known as SVRG) before its proposed merger with the SVR Society Limited as part of the One Railway restructure.
SVRG chairman Diane Malyon said: “It seems quite fitting to me that the SVR’s first Summer Gala of the 21st century should see the last AGM of the Guarantee Company. It feels very much that onwards and upwards is the order of the day”.
All directors were present at the AGM, and the accompanying photo shows Rob Whatton, David Williams, David Mellor (company secretary), Martin Creese, Neil Limbrick, Diane Malyon (chairman), Paul Appleton, Antony Bartlam, Michelle Bevon (vice chairman), Jonathan Dunster (general manager SVRG) and Charlie Wright.
Also captured on film for posterity are the SVRG longest-serving directors David Williams, David Mellor and Diane Malyon.
Between them, they’ve clocked up a combined 141 years of service for the Guarantee Company.
David Williams has 54 years, with many of those as chairman, David Mellor has 56 years as company secretary and Diane Malyon has 31 years, the last four of which have been as chairman.
Once the formal part of the merger is complete, there is expected to be a winding up period of up to 18 months to fully address all the aspects that SVRG currently covers.
Throughout the transition period, membership renewals will continue in the usual way.
For more information, please visit svr.co.uk where you can renew an existing membership or purchase a new one.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
What's coming up?
Stourbridge branch meetings
The SVR Stourbridge branch holds meetings on the first Wednesday of each month featuring presentations by guest speakers. The programme is as follows:
2 September - Doctor Beeching and his Closures presented by John Rimmer.
7 October - Northern Britain and The Ffestiniog Railway 1947 to 1967 presented by Michael Clemens.
4 November – speaker to be confirmed
2 December - BBC Gardeners World Live: Garden Railway presented by Andy Christie
Meetings are held at The Bonded Warehouse, Canal Street, Stourbridge, DY8 4LU at 7.30pm and admission is £3. All are welcome.
For further information contact Chris Dyche on 01384 375582
Geoff Hudson talks British Rail
The Fifty Fund are putting on a fundraising event called The British Rail Years on Saturday 22 August at the Station Tea Room at Kidderminster.
Geoff Hudson, former area fleet manager at Plymouth's Laira Depot, will give a talk exploring the origins and development of Class 50 locomotives.
This new audio and visual presentation will cover their operation and maintenance, the refurbishment programme, and their final years in British Rail service, including the historic farewell rail tour.
The talk begins at 7.45pm and runs until 10.15pm with a 15-minute break. Refreshments will be available to purchase from the King & Castle Pub, located next door to the venue.
Fifty Fund secretary Dawn Spencer said:
“Come and enjoy a day and evening with class 50s! We are delighted to welcome back our honorary president, Geoff Hudson, for new information in the history of the class. Many will remember Geoff’s excellent previous talk, and we look forward to another enjoyable and insightful evening. Most conveniently, there’s going to be two Class 50 round trips to Bridgnorth on this date!”
Tickets are £10 and can be booked in advance or paid in cash on the door.
To reserve a place, email sales@fiftyfund.org.uk with the subject line: Geoff Hudson Talk. For further information visit fiftyfund-alliance.co.uk or contact Dawn Spencer pa@class50alliance.co.uk
All funds raised during the evening will be kindly donated by Geoff to the Class 50 Alliance to support the ongoing upkeep and preservation of the fleet.
Class 50 50033 'Glorious' crossing Oldbury Viaduct. Kevin Whitehurst
Gearing up for the 6th O Gauge Get Together
The 6th annual O Gauge Get Together will be held at The Engine House, Highley over the weekend of 17-18 October.
A wealth of layouts is already confirmed for this event, as well as a wide range of trade stands.
The beautifully crafted layouts on display offer detailed glimpses into the times and places they convey; Blowers Green is based on a relatively local wagon repairs yard in the 1980s, while Grafty Green delves into the world of the Colonel Stephens’ light railways.
Additional layouts confirmed include one of the first public appearances of Jack Boskett’s scrapyard layout/diorama, and an 0-16.5 layout, The Basin from the Cradley Heath Club, Regular exhibitors Luton Model Railway Club will present Docklands by Andrew Jones and Swansea Riverside by the late Alistair George, while the Bridgnorth Station team will once again be bringing their diorama along with an excellent selection of O gauge models. Co-organiser Tom Clarke said:
“There’s going to be so much to see, showcasing the versatility of O gauge.
Both Docklands and Swansea Riverside make excellent use of space and go to demonstrate that you don't need oodles of room to accommodate effective O Gauge at home.
Meanwhile, on the other end of the scale, Blowers Green is around 4 metres long!
“Our popular SVR Resilience Fund raffle will give visitors the chance to win some excellent prizes from Dapol Ltd, Ellis Clark Trains and Yellow Shed Designs, plus much, much more, including some lovely items and experiences from the SVR itself!
“Finally, the Show Exclusive 2026 wagon is in progress and we're awaiting some artwork samples before revealing what we have in mind!”
Several SVR-based locomotive groups will be bringing stands to the event, The Model Electronics Railway Group (MERG) will be offering demonstrations of their products and recommendations, and the Gauge O Guild stand will be on hand for membership and Guild enquiries.
The Railway will be running a full service to transport visitors to the show, and with more layouts still to be announced, this packed event is one not to be missed. Tom added:
“If anybody has any more to offer or wishes to get involved or even has a thought or layout for the 2027 show then please get in touch at facebook.com/SVRGaugeOShow.”
For further information and to book tickets visit svr.co.uk/events
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions - all photos thanks to Tom Clarke!.
Singin’ on the Train - hitting all the right notes
This one-of-a-kind event will combine the stirring sounds of male voice choirs with the nostalgic charm of heritage diesel locomotives this Saturday, 15 August.
Passengers can travel between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth, stepping off at stations along the way to enjoy live performances from celebrated male choirs.
This year, six choirs from as far afield as Somerset and Blackpool will be performing and times are available on the website event page.
The evening Choir Concert taking place at Kidderminster is fully booked, but there will be plenty of train services during the day so you can still hear the choirs sing.
All-day travel is available with a Freedom-of-the-Line ticket, or for those looking for a shorter experience, Short Journey tickets are also on offer. Standard fares apply, and tickets can be purchased in advance or on the day.
For performance times and tickets, please visit svr.co.uk.
A male voice choir in full song outside the Railwayman's Arms at Bridgnorth station. David Bissett
Festive fun for all the family
It’s all aboard for a magical journey on the Severn Valley Railway this festive season!
Santa’s Steam Specials (Kidderminster)
After festive fun at Kidderminster Station, travel in a private compartment or at a reserved table on a vintage steam train to Arley.
Brand new for 2026, join Santa and friends for The Key to Christmas, a heart-warming adventure brought to life at Arley Station.
With music, laughter, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic, The Key to Christmas live show promises to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Back on the train, presents will be waiting for all children, before your train steams back to Kidderminster.
Relaxed Santa Steam Specials (Kidderminster)
For those who would prefer an experience which brings down the volume, keeps lighting at a low level and offers a reduced capacity, Relaxed Santa Steam Specials can also be booked online.
Santa's Steam Specials - Severn Valley Railway
The Elf Express (Bridgnorth)
The Elf Express departs from Bridgnorth Station, and your journey begins with a warm welcome from Mrs Claus.
Before Santa begins his Christmas Eve preparations, a very important train rolls into town.
This year, he has a mission, and he’s enlisted his most trusted helpers to make it happen. On board The Elf Express, you’ll meet a carefully chosen team of Santa’s elves, ready to fill your journey with fun, character and festive cheer.
This experience brings the magic of Christmas to life for all ages. Each child will also receive a present-shaped surprise during the journey.
The Elf Express - Severn Valley Railway
Festive Afternoon Tea (Kidderminster)
Departing from Kidderminster, savour delicious treats and fine tea as you journey through the picturesque landscape of the Severn Valley, creating an unforgettable ambiance.
Indulge in delectable scones, mouth-watering sandwiches, and sweet treats, all accompanied by the soothing rhythm of the train and the twinkling lights of the season.
Festive Afternoon Tea - Severn Valley Railway
The Festive Season starts on Saturday 28 November and other selected dates.
Tickets for Santa’s Steam Special, The Elf Express and Festive Afternoon Tea are on sale now.
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 22-23 August.
Stalls will be nestled amongst the Railway’s full-size locomotives and carriages on display.
The Engine House, the SVR’s visitor centre, is just a short walk from Highley station.
The Fayre takes place from 10.45am – 4.30pm each day (last entry 4pm).
Entry to the Art and Craft Fayre is free, but as there’s no on-site parking, the best way to get to The Engine House is by heritage train.
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.
See the exhibitor list and plan your visit at https://svr.co.uk/event/art-and-craft-fayre/
Across the Railway
The Railwayman’s Arms stars in Trackside!
The current (August) edition of Trackside magazine features an in-depth article on the history and charms of the SVR’s Bridgnorth pub, the Railwayman’s Arms.
The pub has been serving pints to thirsty travellers (and locals!) since 1861; it defied the closure of the Severn Valley line in the 1960s and became a firm favourite with supporters of the SVR in preservation ever since.
The article looks back in time at some of the tales and legends that abound around the multi-award-winning pub, which was named as Bridgnorth’s pub of the year in the most recent round of CAMRA awards in June this year. Cheers to that!
Rolling stock
Mighty Mogul set to return to the main line
One of the best-loved SVR-based locomotives is preparing to take on a new role, with Stanier Mogul 13268 set to return to the national network later this year.
The locomotive will join the Vintage Trains fleet, based at Tyseley in Birmingham, under a new arrangement with the SVR and the Stanier Mogul Fund.
It will continue to appear on the SVR while also hauling main line rail tours, giving even more people the opportunity to experience this remarkable survivor.
The return to the main line is a significant milestone in a preservation story that began more than 50 years ago.
Built in January 1934, the locomotive became the sole surviving example of its class after being sent to Woodham Brothers scrapyard at Barry at the end of its British Railways career.
The Stanier Mogul Fund was established in 1971 to save the locomotive.
It was purchased in 1973 and moved to Bridgnorth, with generations of volunteers, members and supporters subsequently playing a vital role in its restoration and continued operation.
After returning to steam in 1990, 13268 entered passenger service the following year.
Apart from periods out of traffic for overhaul, it went on to provide many years of sterling service on the SVR and national network, earning its affectionate nickname, ‘the Mighty Mogul’.
Following its latest overhaul, the locomotive returned to traffic in 2023 as 2968 before emerging from the SVR’s paint shop in April 2024 in its original LMS identity, 13268, for the first time in more than 80 years.
Gus Dunster, the SVR’s chief executive officer, said it would be “fantastic” to see 13268 back on the national network, adding that the partnership would allow the locomotive to continue delighting passengers both on the SVR and beyond.
Subject to the usual requirements and approvals, Vintage Trains is planning for 13268 to haul the Worcester Shakespeare Express on Sunday 8 November.
Until then, visitors can continue to enjoy the Mighty Mogul in action on the SVR, while its return to the main line provides another opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievement of everyone who has helped preserve this unique locomotive.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
The lowdown on how to prep and drive a Class 50!
Two fascinating films have recently been added to the SVR’s official YouTube channel.
The first deals with preparing a Class 50 for service and the second covers driving the locomotive.
Both are ably presented by Bob Dunn, one of the Railway’s most experienced diesel drivers, and they feature 50033 Glorious.
Produced by Tom Wellings, the films are attracting a great deal of interest from viewers and helping to drive engagement and advertising revenue with the Railway’s YouTube channel.
Take a look yourself – perhaps a new volunteer career beckons?
Dispatches from the Depot
Steam traction often hogs the limelight, but the SVR is proud to have a fantastic home fleet of diesel locomotives that receive constant care and attention at the Kidderminster Traction Maintenance Depot (TMD) as diesel depot manager Roland Bull reports:
When I was asked to provide a regular report on the goings on at TMD for Branch Lines I knew I was going to have a lot to talk about - and this month, it’s all about bogies!
In what has been a very busy month, we lifted BR Class 46 diesel electric 46045 for the Peak Locomotive Company, using our Mechan jacks, to allow a contractor to work on the traction motor gear cases and the group to inspect the traction motor brushes and to change a few brake cylinders.
Getting a contractor in to do the gear cases was a really smart move; the black lubricant inside the cases is an interesting product called Motak.
Motak is extremely sticky and hence difficult to clean up or remove from boots or clothing! It runs like water when hot, like thick treacle when warm and sets solid when cold.
Fortunately, it is an effective high-pressure lubricant when in its proper environment and only a few microns thick.
A few weeks later we used the overhead crane at the other end of the depot and lifted out the loco's steam heating boiler so that it could go off-site for inspection, safety testing, and certification, before we need it during the cold weather to provide train heating.
The Western Locomotive Association have also been busy stripping and cleaning the bogie from BR Class 52, D1013 Western Ranger, and the Diesel Traction Group have been stripping the bogie from BR Class 35, D7029.
Thankfully for the ease of cleaning up afterwards, both of these are diesel hydraulic drive locomotives and happily are Motak-free!
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
‘Wheely’ useful at Bridgnorth MPD
Naturally, it’s the locomotives themselves that attract attention, but maintaining them often requires specialised pieces of kit, which in themselves can be very interesting. Bridgnorth’s volunteer shed master Martin White reports:
Within the locomotive works, one of the most important pieces of equipment that we are fortunate to have on the SVR is a wheel drop, also sometimes referred to as a drop pit.
A wheel drop is a mechanism that allows a single wheelset (the axle and wheel at each end) to be removed from a locomotive, or tender, without having to lift the whole locomotive into the air.
Lifting a whole locomotive requires the use of high-capacity cranes or the works lifting jacks, whereas a wheel drop enables the locomotive to remain on the rails.
The drop pit forms part of the main inspection/maintenance pit inside the loco works. It consists of a short section of pit and rails which in essence are a lift, which can be lowered below ground.
A locomotive which requires repair to a set of wheels, axle, axle boxes, etc or to the loco frames in the immediate area of the wheels, is positioned with the offending wheels on the drop pit.
The springs, brakes, side rods etc for those wheels are disconnected, and then the lift is put into action, which lowers the lift and that section of pit, taking the wheelset with it, below the ground, where the chamber is more than four metres deep.
Once the lift has descended a set of temporary rails automatically slide into place from the sides of the pit.
These temporary rails enable the locomotive to be shunted off the pit, with the wheelset missing. The lift mechanism is then reversed, with the lift ascending and bringing the wheelset back up to rail level where it can be worked on or moved elsewhere.
To reassemble the locomotive, the whole process is reversed. Believe me, that’s far easier to write than to do in practice!
As mentioned earlier, without the wheel drop it would be necessary to use the loco works’ lifting jacks to remove a wheelset, but these are normally occupied for months on end by a locomotive or tender undergoing heavy overhaul with all its wheels removed.
Historic photographic evidence exists of SVR locos being lifted at an alarming angle from one end by the steam crane, to remove a wheelset prior to the wheel drop being installed!
The wheel drop was acquired from Leicester Midland MPD and installed at Bridgnorth in 2010. Its acquisition, refurbishment and installation are another story!
Since being commissioned it has been used countless times, not just for wheelset removal but also for more mundane jobs such as loco spring replacements, which are easier and safer to do with the drop pit than with the previous more manual/physical techniques.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
People
SVR honours golden volunteers
On Wednesday 21 June, the SVR welcomed a group of particularly dedicated volunteers to The Engine House, to honour their 50 years of continuous service as working members.
The half-century milestone was reached by 15 volunteers this year.
The list comprises Ian Latimer, Alan Thwaites, Brian Malyon, Phillip Hammond, Peter Maddicks, Terry Jenkins, David Stowell, Stephen Dockerty, Stephen Peplow, Simon Brooks, Dave Beaman, Martin White, Peter Darkin, Anthony Booth and Iain Shorthouse.
Together they have contributed 750 years of service to the SVR!
In a ceremony led by SVRG chairman Diane Malyon and SVR chief executive officer Gus Dunster, ably assisted by volunteer liaison officer Barry Moreton, volunteers were awarded their gold passes to honour their magnificent commitment.
Two volunteers were unable to join on the day and subsequently received their awards in a separate presentation. Diane said:
“The dedication, enthusiasm and ability that those who’ve volunteered for such a long time is truly remarkable, especially when they’re continuing as working members.
“In fact, from the original group of volunteers who were awarded their gold passes in 2017 there are still one or two putting in their volunteer hours. We’d better get started on the design for the 60-year badge!’”
While celebrating this milestone moment for these volunteers, the SVR wishes to acknowledge that life can throw curve balls in the form of health conditions that cause an enthusiastic volunteer to give up what they love doing.
In those instances, the volunteer liaison department can issue retired working members passes to ensure these former volunteers can still enjoy visits to the SVR and other benefits.
Celebrating 50 years of volunteer service. Jeffrey Edisbury
Back row: Gus Dunster (chief executive officer), Ian Latimer, Alan Thwaites, Brian Malyon, Phillip Hammond, Peter Maddicks, Terry Jenkins, David Stowell and Diane Malyon (SVRG chairman)
Front row: Stephen Dockerty, Stephen Peplow, Simon Brooks, Dave Beaman, Martin White, Peter Darkin and Barry Moreton (volunteer liaison officer)
New chairman and directors appointed to lead SVRS
The Railway’s operator, the Severn Valley Railway Society Limited, has announced changes to its board following its first board meeting after the Annual General Meeting in June.
Continuing the Railway's long-standing practice, the board has elected its chairman and deputy chairman for the coming year.
Charlie Wright becomes chairman, with Mike Hulme elected deputy chairman.
Charlie is a chartered accountant and chief executive of a group of manufacturing businesses.
An active SVR volunteer, he serves as a steam fireman and has led the railway's One Railway organisational restructure, including the successful conversion of the former SVR (Holdings) Plc into the Severn Valley Railway Society Limited.
Mike brings extensive senior rail industry experience, having retired as site managing director of Alstom's rolling stock site at Derby after a career spanning engineering, operations and executive leadership across the rail sector.
The Railway has also appointed Antony Bartlam and Phil Swallow to the board. Both have been co-opted as directors.
Antony, a structural engineer and long-standing SVR volunteer, will take special responsibility for infrastructure. He played a leading role in coordinating the railway's response to the Mor Brook embankment collapse and has been instrumental in developing long-term infrastructure resilience and inspection programmes.
Phil has more than 30 years' experience in technology and business transformation, together with a long-standing passion for heritage railways as a co-owner of the SVR-based locomotive 34027 Taw Valley.
The changes also mark the retirement of two long-serving directors.
Chris Walton steps down after 40 years at board level, including serving as chairman during the recent period of multiple challenges that the SVR has faced.
Andy Barr retires after 12 years on the board, during which he made a significant contribution through his extensive rail safety knowledge and experience.
The SVR's chief executive officer, Gus Dunster, said:
"These appointments bring together an exceptional combination of commercial, engineering and railway expertise. Charlie, Mike, Antony and Phil each have a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing heritage railways, and I look forward to working closely with them as we continue to build One Railway.
"I would also like to record my sincere thanks to Chris and Andy for their outstanding service to the SVR. Their commitment and leadership have helped the railway through some exceptionally challenging years, including the Covid pandemic and rising operating costs, culminating in our successful transition to a Charitable Community Benefit Society.
"Both have made invaluable contributions to the Railway, and I'm delighted they will remain active as volunteers, continuing to support an organisation that means so much to them and to so many others. "
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
v1 13th August 2026
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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.