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June 2026
Arley station catches the sun between showers at the Spring 2026 Diesel Festival. Jason Hood
Welcome to your latest edition of Branch Lines!
In the words of Rogers and Hammerstein, ‘June is bustin’ out all over’, and the past month has certainly seen a flurry of activity for the Railway.
We have news of the launch of a major fundraising campaign from the SVR Charitable Trust. ‘Raise the Roof’ is a £1 million appeal to build a canopy along the platform at Kidderminster Town, to complete the GWR vision of the SVR’s gateway station.
Then there’s the conversion of the Railway’s operating company into the Severn Valley Railway Society Limited, the long-awaited return to steam of 4150 and guest news for both the Summer Gala and the Autumn Steam Gala.
Amongst all the good news, we are very sad to report the death of Keith Beddoes, the founding father of the SVR. We pay tribute to his vision and determination and link to a fascinating interview in which Keith talked about ‘how it all happened’.
We hope you enjoy reading your June 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?
Raise the Roof – a major new fundraising appeal for the Railway
The SVR Railway Charitable Trust has launched a major fundraising appeal to raise £1 million for the construction of a heritage platform canopy at Kidderminster Town station.
The ‘Raise the Roof’ campaign will help complete the original vision for the Railway’s award-winning southern terminus, creating an authentic Great Western Railway-style canopy along the station’s double platform.
The project has been made possible by a substantial legacy gift, enabling one of the most ambitious station enhancement schemes in the Severn Valley Railway’s history.
The Trust is now inviting supporters, visitors, businesses and the wider community to help bring the vision to life.
Kidderminster Town station has been developed over several decades to reflect the character and quality of a traditional Great Western Railway station.
The new canopy will complete that transformation, enhancing the visitor experience while preserving the station’s historic authenticity for future generations.
Judith Meredith, Chair of SVRCT, said:
"It feels like we're finally putting the last missing piece into place at Kidderminster. This project will transform the platform and complete the original vision for the station.
"Through our Raise the Roof campaign, we are inviting everyone who loves the Severn Valley Railway to be part of this moment. Every contribution will help create a lasting legacy, ensuring future generations can enjoy a station that truly reflects the heritage and character of the Great Western Railway."
The completed canopy will provide improved shelter for passengers while becoming a striking architectural feature in its own right.
Part of the structure will incorporate salvaged steelwork from the former Great Western Railway station at Wolverhampton Low Level, preserving an important piece of railway heritage.
Gus Dunster, the Railway’s CEO, said:
"Kidderminster is the front door of the Severn Valley Railway, and this project will make it a gateway worthy of what lies beyond.
"A canopy will transform the welcome we can give our visitors, strengthening the sense of arrival at one of Britain’s leading heritage railways and enhancing the station for everyone who visits."
Alongside donations, a range of sponsorship opportunities will allow individuals and organisations to play a visible and lasting role in bringing the canopy to life.
If you would like to find out more about supporting this ambitious and important project, please visit svrtrust.org.uk.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Severn Valley Railway Society launched!
The SVR reached a landmark moment in its history on 1 June with the successful conversion of Severn Valley Railway (Holdings) Plc into a Charitable Community Benefit Society (CCBS).
The organisation is now known as the Severn Valley Railway Society Limited (SVRS), following approval of the conversion by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
The change represents a major milestone in the Railway’s ambitious One Railway project, a long-term programme designed to create a more resilient, transparent and efficient organisational structure that is both better suited to today's operating and regulatory environment and safeguards the railway's future.
The One Railway project has received overwhelming support from both shareholders and members.
The successful conversion to a CCBS provides significant financial advantages for the Railway including access to charitable funding opportunities and Gift Aid recovery. The change also ensures that the Railway will continue to operate for the benefit of its members, supporters and the wider community. Speaking on the formal launch day for SVRS, chairman Chris Walton said:
“Today marks a defining moment in the history of the Severn Valley Railway. This new structure places the Railway on a firmer footing for the years ahead, while preserving the values and heritage that are so important to everyone connected with the SVR. On behalf of the board, I would like to thank all those who have contributed to reaching this milestone. Their commitment, patience and confidence in the One Railway project have helped make this day possible.”
Gus Dunster, SVRS’s chief executive officer, continued:
“This is the beginning of an exciting new chapter in our story. While the change will not be noticeable to our visitors, what it does mean is that we are in a much stronger position when it comes to financial security, future investment and the long-term sustainability of the Railway. It will help us to generate additional income that can be invested directly back into the Railway, its infrastructure and its heritage assets.”
Charlie Wright, SVRS director and lead for the One Railway project, added:
“This has been a complex programme involving detailed planning, extensive consultation and significant regulatory work, and I am immensely proud of everyone who has contributed to making it happen.
‘The aim throughout has been to create an organisation that is better equipped to meet modern challenges while remaining true to the values and heritage that make the SVR so special. The new structure provides greater resilience, improved transparency and increased efficiency, ensuring that resources can be focused where they matter most."
The next phase of the re-organisation, expected to be completed later this year, will see the amalgamation of SVRS with the Severn Valley Railway Company Limited (often referred to as SVRG) into a single organisation.
An online briefing and Q&A took place about the impact of the conversion, and this can be viewed at CCBS online briefing.
SVR-based locomotives 75069 and 7802 'Bradley Manor' cross at Hampton Loade during the SVR's recent Steam Gala. Kenny Felstead
RIP to the SVR’s founding father
We are saddened to report the death of Keith Beddoes, the man credited with instigating the movement to save the Severn Valley Railway in the mid-1960s.
If Keith hadn’t acted on his annoyance at the cuts and closures by British Rail at the time, the original SVR Society may never have been formed.
This group held a public meeting at the Cooper’s Arms in Kidderminster and formed a committee. Keith was a driving force, described as a man with unlimited enthusiasm and ability to motivate others.
Keith was interviewed a few years ago, as part of the Falling Sands Viaduct project and you can listen to his recollections of the early days of the SVR.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
4150 has steamed again!
The last Barry rescue locomotive to be restored at the Railway has now steamed! Last week, GWR 4150 passed its commissioning steam test, marking a significant step forward in the final stages of the locomotive’s long restoration.
Duncan Ballard, head of steam engineering, said, “Further work is required before we can consider first movements for the locomotive; these are focused on the vacuum system and weighing adjustments.”
It’s hoped that the locomotive will join the line-up at the Railway’s Autumn Steam Gala.
It has been 61 years since British Rail sold the locomotive for scrap to the Woodham Bros yard at Barry.
In this month’s shed notes, Martin White reflects on the contribution that Barry yard made to the whole preservation movement, and Gary Essex has written an in-depth feature article, looking at the history of the locomotive and charting its long journey to restoration, which you can read here.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Two more guests for the Summer Gala
The Railway has confirmed the second and third visiting locomotives for its inaugural Summer Gala, taking place on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July.
Victorian locomotive Neilson & Co No 2937 will make its first appearance on the SVR. Built in Glasgow in 1882, 2937 is a fascinating industrial steam locomotive with a rich heritage.
The locomotive was delivered new to William Baird & Co at Bedlay Colliery near Glenboig, where it carried the number 11.
After withdrawal from industrial service, the loco was acquired in June 1968 by the Railway Preservation Society at Hednesford, Staffordshire, later moving to the Chasewater Light Railway.
Following a period in storage, an extensive restoration saw 2937 return to traffic in August 2025.
The third and final guest locomotive is Hunslet Locomotive No. 3783 Holly Bank No 3.
It was built in 1953 for the National Coal Board by the Hunslet Engine Company. It started its working life with the North Eastern Division at Darfield Main Colliery near Barnsley where it became Darfield No 1.
At Darfield it was employed shunting 16-ton coal trucks around the colliery along with another locomotive. It spent all its working life based at Darfield, apart from a short spell in 1959 at the nearby Houghton Main Colliery.
In 2011, the locomotive moved to the Chasewater Railway, initially on hire, and it was subsequently purchased by the railway. In 2012, it was repainted from black into blue and took on the identity of locomotive Holly Bank No 3 (Hunslet locomotive 1451).
The original Holly Bank was built to the same design by Hunslet in 1924 and worked at Hilton Main and Holly Bank Collieries before moving to Littleton Colliery in 1962.
Holly Bank completed a full overhaul in early 2021 and is now in regular service.
The Summer Gala will celebrate a wide range of locomotive traction, including several rarely seen examples of locomotive power. CEO Gus Dunster said:
“As a completely brand-new event for the SVR, the Summer Gala is all about offering visitors something a little different and showcasing unusual and characterful locomotives alongside our home fleet. Neilson & Co No 2937 and Hunslet locomotive No 3783 Holly Bank No 3 are wonderful additions to the line-up. We’re grateful to the Chasewater Railway and delighted to be welcoming them both to the SVR for what promises to be a fascinating and varied weekend.”
2937 and 3783 will appear alongside the previously announced guest Kerr Stuart ‘Witch’ class No 4388 and members of the SVR’s home fleet. The home fleet is expected to include GWR 813, GWR 1450, GWR 7714, Class 14 D9551, Class 17 D8568 and Class 20 20048.
To book tickets, visit svr.co.uk.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
41313 leads the way for the Autumn Steam Gala
The Railway has confirmed the first guest locomotive for its Autumn Steam Gala, taking place from 17 to 20 September, as planning for the four-day event gathers pace.
Joining the line-up will be Ivatt Class 2 tank locomotive No 41313, appearing courtesy of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
The visit marks several notable milestones, including the locomotive's first-ever appearance at the SVR and the first visit by an Isle of Wight-based locomotive to the line. It will also become only the third member of the Ivatt Class 2 2-6-2 tank family to visit the SVR in preservation.
The Railway is particularly pleased to be able to make this announcement at such an early stage in its preparations for the gala and expects to reveal further visiting locomotives in the coming weeks.
CEO Gus Dunster said: "We're delighted to announce our first guest locomotive for the Autumn Steam Gala so early in the planning process. No 41313 will be making history as the first locomotive from the Isle of Wight Steam Railway to visit the Severn Valley Railway, and we're very grateful to our colleagues there for making this possible.
"Combined with the anticipated gala debut of our newly restored Prairie tank GWR No 4150, and a strong home-fleet line-up, 41313 is a fantastic addition to the event. We're continuing to work hard behind the scenes on further guest locomotive arrangements and hope to be able to share more exciting news with enthusiasts very soon."
The gala line-up will also feature additional members of the SVR's home fleet, including GWR No 813, GWR No 4930 Hagley Hall, GWR No 7714, LMS No 13268 and BR Standard Class 4 No 75069.
With the first guest locomotive now confirmed and further announcements expected soon, the SVR's Autumn Steam Gala is already shaping up to be one of the highlights of the heritage railway calendar.
Further details, including timetables and ticket information are at svr.co.uk and additional guest locomotive announcements will be released in due course.
Ivatt Tank 41313 will guest at the SVR's Autumn Steam Gala. Kenny Felstead
A reminder – SVR Supporters’ Day and AGM
There’s still time for SVR shareholders and members along with SVR Charitable Trust patrons and guardians to secure complimentary tickets to this year’s Supporters’ Day, which takes place on Friday 19 June.
There’s more information at svr.co.uk, where you can also sign up for your first departing service. This arrangement will help avoid overcrowding on the day.
The following day, Saturday 20 June, will see the 54th Annual General Meeting of SVR (Holdings) Plc, now known as the Severn Valley Railway Society Limited.
Shareholders are warmly invited to attend the meeting, starting at 1.45pm at St George’s Hall, Bewdley, DY12 2EQ.
Thanking the Railway's closest supporters. SVR Supporters' Day is on Friday 19 June. Kevin Whitehurst
Other News
Special destination boards honour Gresley’s 150th anniversary
A set of specially created carriage destination boards on the Gresley teak set will mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Sir Nigel Gresley on SVR Supporters' Day, 19 June.
The hand-painted boards have been produced by longstanding volunteer Hugh McQuade and draw inspiration from the 2026 anniversary celebrations organised by the Gresley Society under the theme A Legacy of Innovation, Speed and Elegance. Sir Nigel Gresley, who was born on 19 June 1876, is widely regarded as one of Britain’s greatest railway engineers.
As Chief Mechanical Engineer of the London & North Eastern Railway, he designed some of the most famous steam locomotives ever built, including Flying Scotsman and Mallard, the latter still holding the world speed record for a steam locomotive.
He was also a pioneering carriage designer whose influence extended across railway engineering and passenger comfort.
The project began after the Gresley Society contacted the SVR to ask whether the railway planned to commemorate the anniversary. “They knew the SVR is home to the country’s only significant set of Gresley teak coaches,” said Hugh. “I suggested we do up the roof boards and use them to celebrate Gresley’s legacy.”
The work proved more involved than expected. “It took me two weeks in January just to find all 12 boards,” Hugh explained. “They were scattered around the carriage shed, the works stores and, in some cases, still on coach roofs in a rather sorry state.”
Several boards required repair before all were sanded, undercoated and finished in LNER Garter Blue, with traditional white Gill Sans lettering. The words ‘Innovation’, ‘Speed’ and ‘Elegance’ have been displayed across the set, reflecting the anniversary strapline.
Hugh hopes the boards will continue to educate visitors long after the anniversary year. “They’re all varnished for durability, so I hope they can remain on the train for at least the next five years as prompts to help raise awareness of Gresley and his achievements.”
One of the boards has been placed on brake coach 24506, itself a recreation built from two former pigeon vans. “That seemed particularly appropriate,” said Hugh, “because Gresley was a great believer in rebuilding and adapting railway vehicles.”
Hand-painted destination boards to celebrate 150 years since Gresley's birth. Ronan O'Brien
Steaming Down the Valley runners flock to Arley station
Arley Station played a central role in the successful Steaming Down the Valley event last Saturday, 6 June, welcoming hundreds of runners and spectators during a busy day on the Severn Valley Railway.
More than 80 participants took part in the 5K run from Country Park Halt to Arley Station, while a further 100-plus runners completed the 10K route from Country Park to Arley and back again.
The impressive pace of some competitors even drew comparisons with the Railway itself. “It was quite astonishing how quick some people ran,” said Leonard Warrington, Arley’s assistant station master. “The train took 17 minutes to get to Arley and some of the runners were following not too far behind.”
After crossing the finish line at Arley, the 5K runners were presented with commemorative medals before taking a well-earned rest.
Many then made their way to the booking office to collect traditional Edmondson tickets, creating one of the busiest scenes the station has witnessed.
“There was a queue that came out of the door of the waiting room and up to the gents’ toilet, which, as far as I am aware, has never happened at Arley,” Leonard said. “It was quite a rush, but we enjoyed it. It was wonderful listening to the runners complimenting the Railway, talking about what a good day they’d had so far and saying what a lovely station we have.”
Leonard and Hunter Pearson were kept busy issuing tickets throughout the afternoon, while activity across the station reflected the scale of the event. Lee and Lorraine Spendlove served refreshments from the Weighbridge Tea Room, offering teas, coffees, cakes and ice creams to visitors. Meanwhile, newly qualified platform staff member Paul Johnson welcomed the train that would take runners on the next stage of their journey.
Reflecting on the day, Leonard said he was proud to have played a part in an event that has now become part of the Railway’s story.
“I am very honoured to be a part of this event,” he said. “It is now a part of our Railway’s rich history of taking part in events like this. As a token of the organisers’ appreciation, we were all given medals, which we are very grateful for.”
The event showcased the close partnership between the SVR and the local community, with Arley Station providing a memorable welcome for runners and visitors alike.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
No dampening the moo’d at Spring Diesel Fest
Thousands of visitors flocked to the SVR for the annual Spring Diesel Fest, to enjoy the sights and sounds of a packed diesel roster, despite the changeable weather!
Alongside the home fleet, visitors were treated to both heritage and main line guest locomotives.
The main line guests comprised a Class 59 from Heavy Haul Rail, Class 67 from DB Cargo, Class 57/6 from Great Western Railway, Class 57/3 from GB Railfreight, Class 57/0 from West Coast Railways and a Class 56 from Colas Rail.
There was some disappointment expressed online from a very vocal minority that due to Colas’s crew availability, the Class 56 was only able to operate on the Friday and Saturday.
However, this was balanced by a solid amount of support in direct response to this, commenting on the practicalities of running a gala and praising the hard work carried out by the volunteers.
Visiting heritage locos were Hymek D7018 from the Diesel & Electric Preservation Group and Deltic 55009 Alycidon from the Deltic Preservation Society.
Both were extremely popular. D7018 suffered a coolant leak and missed part of its roster on one day but this was swiftly repaired.
Timings slipped early on the first day, when a delay was caused by a shunt involving some wagons and the DMU at Bewdley, but that glitch aside, operationally the timetable worked well.
The only exception was not something that could have been planned for, as on Saturday an incursion by some cows at Eymore Cutting required alterations be made to the operation to avoid too much time being lost and delaying late-evening trains.
CEO Gus Dunster said:
“My thanks to everyone across the Railway for delivering yet another successful event, as always, we are most grateful to the mainline operators and heritage groups who supplied locomotives for the event.
“There is some learning to be taken from the planning error that caused the delay with the stabling of the DMU on day one, but visitor feedback for the event has been overwhelmingly positive and secondary spend certainly in the bars has been very strong indeed. It was particularly encouraging to see so many younger people visiting which bodes well for the future of what we all love to do. Thanks again to everyone, your efforts are really appreciated!”
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
The Spring Diesel Festival’s ‘palpable buzz of excitement’
Branch Lines sent writer Nicky Fox to experience the event first-hand. Here’s her report:
On Thursday May 14, the first day of the Spring Diesel Festival, the weather was a breezy mix of sun and cloud, with the occasional hailstorm thrown in for good measure.
But that did not dampen the enthusiasm of the visitors who attended in their droves.
Following a friendly welcome in the booking hall, Kidderminster station concourse was packed with trade and locomotive stands, as a palpable buzz of excitement filled the space.
Enticing smells drifted from the cafe and, with West Coast 57010 and Colas 56049 Robin of Templecombe providing visual appeal, the enthusiasm was infectious.
The newly extended platform provided a fantastic vantage point, the bells from Kidderminster station signal box increasing anticipation of imminent arrivals.
Expectation was in the air as enthusiasts waited first for 20048 with its rake of coaches, then the grand and thrumming entrance of Deltic 55009.
While much of the heritage sector’s visitor base is families and the general public, here enthusiasts still rule. Coveted spots in the first coaches behind the engines filled long before departure, and the atmosphere was joyous despite the mercurial weather.
Departure was delayed by shunting issues at Bewdley and this had a knock-on effect throughout the day. However, a definite advantage of diesel traction is its ability to start away quickly and make up time.
One of the joys of an event such as this is the pairing of modern and heritage diesels with vintage coaching stock. A distinctive sight was 1960s locomotives Class 14 ‘Teddy Bear’ D9551 and Class 17 ‘Clayton’ D8568 at the head of the LNER teak set and its roughly 90-year-old coaches.
The sheer variety of traction on display was the event’s biggest draw. To go from standing beside a thrumming Deltic and enjoying its smooth ride to hearing the Class 14 and 17 open up and roar through the Valley was quite the experience.
Throughout the day, visitors were chopping and changing from train to train to get behind the locomotive of their choice, many shuttling between Bewdley and Hampton Loade to maximise the available thrash. The Hymek proved popular and was standing room only on its early afternoon departure from Bewdley, and I heard the cry of ‘What a machine!’ as it swept into the platform.
This was an event full of sights and sounds like no other and, after a particularly deafening and evocative trip through Bewdley tunnel, the only sight that could top that was watching a boy of around 10 racing to keep pace with the 14 and 17 as they left light engine.
Camera out and darting around people on the platform to keep them in frame, the locomotives may have won the race, but, given the smile on his face, the real winner of the day was this young man.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Hellfire on the SVR
Hellfire TV visited the Railway recently to produce an in-depth film on visiting Deltic 55009 Alycidon.
Featuring locomotive prep, on board footage and a driver’s eye view, this feature-length film utilises four cameras, three windproof microphones and, filmed in 4K, is a must for diesel fans!
Created by Martin Hawksby for Hellfire TV, the film was produced in collaboration with the Deltic Preservation Society (DPS), the largest diesel locomotive preservation society in the United Kingdom.
The DPS owns three of the six surviving Deltics and frequently partners with the SVR to feature their fantastic locomotives at gala and other special events, as well as for driver experiences.
While the starring role of course goes to 55009 Alcydion, the Railway’s CEO Gus Dunster has the supporting honours, offering insights into the locomotive, before taking the helm for a ride through the stunning Valley scenery. Director Martin Hawksby said:
“We are all really proud of this film.
We hope you’ll enjoy the ride and hear about Gus’s love and appreciation for Deltics. The best experience for viewing, as if you are onboard, is with headphones, with the volume up! Be careful though, because without headphones you might upset the neighbours!’
To watch the film, have headphones at the ready and click on the accompanying image.
Steam Saturdays
The SVR is set to bring an extra touch of steam-era nostalgia to Bridgnorth this summer, with steam-hauled services operating on the first train of the day from the town every Saturday in June, July and August.
The services will see one of the Railway’s smaller steam locomotives paired with a set of historic Great Western Railway carriages, offering passengers the chance to begin their day with steam from the SVR’s original preserved station.
The historic carriage set will include GWR 4786, which was recently restored by volunteers at Bewdley, which is celebrating its 100th year in service during 2026. Lewis Maddox, visitor engagement manager, said:
“These special Saturday departures are all about celebrating what makes our Railway so unique. There’s something very special about boarding a steam train at Bridgnorth behind a beautifully presented locomotive and travelling in some of our oldest and most historic carriages.
“We know there’s demand from visitors who want to start their journey behind steam from Bridgnorth, particularly during the summer months when Shropshire welcomes so many tourists and day-trippers. These services give passengers more flexibility while also helping us maximise capacity on some of our busiest operating days.
“We’re especially excited to showcase GWR 4786 during its centenary year. The carriage has recently undergone restoration work by our volunteers at Bewdley and it will be wonderful to see passengers enjoying travel in a vehicle with such an incredible history behind it.”
The initiative forms part of the Railway’s efforts to enhance the visitor experience at Bridgnorth while showcasing its nationally significant collection of historic rolling stock in the setting where preservation on the SVR first began.
One of the SVR's smaller steam locomotives will haul a set of historic GWR carriages on the Saturday morning service from Bridgnorth. Bob Green
Bumper visits for May half-term
During May half-term the Railway operated for nine days in a row, from Saturday 23 to Sunday 31 May.
A ‘Kids for a Quid’ offer proved a big hit with families and more than 5,000 passengers enjoyed a day out on the Railway. The offer allowed children aged 4–17 to travel for just £1 when accompanied by an adult holding a Freedom-of-the-Line ticket.
As a bonus, TrainTimeUK returned to The Engine House at Highley with their giant train set, always a popular choice with families.
There was much positive feedback during half-term, with this Tripadvisor review summing things up superbly:
“Fantastic Nostalgic Day Out at SVR. Absolutely loved it, children and adults alike. Friendly helpful staff, beautiful stations, buildings and trains so lovingly restored - So nostalgic.
Scenery and countryside was breath taking. Use the train timetables – either online or paper copies from stations - so you can plan your day as there is plenty to visit and cram in.
“Make sure to visit The Engine House at Highley where you can get up close to the locomotives and also learn about their history. If you disembark at Bridgnorth, make sure to visit the Castle Hill Cliff Railway for a unique experience.”
Roll on summer, it will be here before we know it!
Giant train set at The Engine House. TrainTimeUK
Double cheers as CAMRA honours both SVR pubs
The Railway is celebrating a double success after both of its pubs received recognition in this year’s Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) pub-of-the-year awards.
The King and Castle in Kidderminster has been named Worcestershire CAMRA Pub of the Year and will now go forward to represent the county in the regional competition.
Judges praised the pub’s warm hospitality, impressive selection of quality beers and comfortable, relaxing environment that encourages conversation and enjoyment.
Nick Yarwood, CAMRA spokesperson, said: “The King and Castle stands out as a fantastic community pub with a welcoming atmosphere.
“The team have achieved a remarkable transformation, offering a diverse array of consistently high-quality cask beers, real ciders and other refreshments.”
Meanwhile, the SVR’s Railwayman’s Arms at Bridgnorth has been named Bridgnorth CAMRA Pub of the Year and is now awaiting the outcome of the Shropshire Pub of the Year competition.
Nicky Freeman, the SVR’s visitor experience manager, said: “We are absolutely delighted that both of our pubs have been recognised by CAMRA.
“Huge thanks must go to the teams at both the King and Castle and the Railwayman’s Arms, who work incredibly hard to ensure they give every customer a warm welcome and serve the best quality ales possible.
“We are thrilled to receive this recognition from CAMRA, whose Good Beer Guide is the gold standard for UK pub-goers. These awards are a testament to the dedication, passion and expertise of our staff and volunteers, and we wish the King and Castle every success in the regional competition.”
The awards reinforce the SVR’s commitment to providing high-quality hospitality alongside its heritage railway experience.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
What's coming up?
1940s events steam into view
The countdown is on to one of the SVR’s most popular events, with the first ‘Step Back to the 1940s’ weekend just around the corner.
Taking place across two consecutive weekends, on 27–28 June and 4–5 July, the much-loved event will once again transform the length of the Railway into a vibrant celebration of wartime Britain, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and stories of the 1940s.
At Kidderminster, this year’s events will include an ARP post and Anderson shelter, alongside a striking Hellcat tank and a collection of vintage vehicles.
Bewdley will celebrate the spirit of ‘holidays at home’ with a wartime orchard display, appearances inspired by Laurel and Hardy and a tribute to George Formby.
Arley will combine poignant remembrance with family entertainment, featuring a silhouette walk honouring those who lost their lives during the conflict, as well as Punch and Judy performances, and a recreated military hospital train.
Highley and The Engine House will host military displays, a wartime funfair, dance lessons and a vintage marketplace, while Hampton Loade and Bridgnorth will be filled with period atmosphere, from patrolling Military Police to musical performances and traditional traders.
As always, throughout the event, visitors can expect to encounter soldiers, civilians and wartime officials, along with appearances by Winston Churchill and Field Marshal Montgomery.
The celebrations continue into the evening on Saturday 28 June and Saturday 5 July with the ever-popular 1940s Band Show concerts at Kidderminster station.
The performances start at 7pm and a dedicated steam-hauled train will operate from Bridgnorth to Kidderminster for concertgoers. Visitor engagement manager Lewis Maddox said:
‘Step Back to the 1940s remains one of the highlights of our calendar each year, and it’s not hard to understand its enduring appeal.
‘From the moment visitors step through the gates, they are immersed in the atmosphere of wartime Britain, surrounded by authentic sights, sounds and experiences. It’s a unique and memorable journey into the past that vividly showcases history in an entertaining and meaningful way.’
The Step Back to the 1940s weekends are expected to attract thousands of people from across the region and beyond. More information, timetables and tickets are available at svr.co.uk.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Across the Railway
Update on the work of the permanent way team
Highley and Stanley cutting have been a focus for the permanent way department in the past few weeks.
They used the ‘Muscleman’ track-slewing machine to ease the curve, allowing closed rail gaps to be opened and set correctly. Ballast adjustment has also taken place to reduce the pronounced hump by the road bridge.
Many life-expired sleepers have been replaced at Highley siding two headshunt, which runs alongside the wooden fence.
Newer sleepers have been used, including the SVR’s first plastic sleeper, part of a recent donation of track materials from Network Rail.
Over recent years, there’s been an increased use of plastic sleepers on rail networks in Europe and the USA. Although the initial cost is higher than other materials, they are more durable and often contain at least a proportion of recycled materials, some being 100% recycled plastics.
Although SVR policy is to keep wooden sleepers in station environments to preserve the line’s heritage appearance, concrete sleepers are used in several other areas because of their longevity.
The recently acquired JCB mini digger has seen regular use and is proving invaluable for many jobs, as it can access more areas than the road rail vehicles (RRVs). The team used it to level old spoil piles between Unicorn Crossing and the Hampton Loade Up Home, which has greatly improved the signal sighting on approach.
Several rail lubricators were amongst the recent equipment donation by Network Rail. These are used to apply grease to the inside of the rail, which gets applied to wheel flanges, avoiding wheel wear on sharp curves and reducing squeal. The paid staff have overhauled them ready for installation.
A warm welcome to Craig Morris, a new member of staff who has joined the permanent way team this month. Craig replaces Joel Tonks who has moved to mainline operator Locomotive Services Ltd, but who will still be volunteering at Bridgnorth MPD.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Rolling stock
SVR volunteers granted special access to Queen’s Saloon
Two SVR volunteers were given a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes at the National Railway Museum last month to view the historic Queen's Saloon, a vehicle that is not normally accessible to the public.
Phil Ralls and John Rutherford, who both volunteer as hosts on the Royal Saloon at The Engine House Visitor Centre in Highley, made the visit on 13 May following a request prompted by questions frequently asked by visitors.
Guests touring King George VI’s Saloon at Highley often ask whether Queen Elizabeth’s Saloon at York is identical to its counterpart. Both were built in 1941 by the LMS.
Keen to find out more, Phil contacted the National Railway Museum to see whether a visit could be arranged.
The museum responded positively and invited the pair to York for a special viewing of the carriage.
"We're regularly asked about the Queen's Saloon by visitors to The Engine House," said John Rutherford. "Many people assume it is identical to the King's Saloon, so it was fascinating to have the opportunity to see it for ourselves and learn more about its history and design."
On arrival, Phil and John were welcomed by senior conservator Dean Smith and two colleagues, who provided a guided tour of the carriage and highlighted a number of differences between the two royal vehicles.
"The similarities are obvious, but there are also some subtle differences," said John. "The King's Saloon has predominantly wood-finished interior walls, whereas the Queen's Saloon features attractive duck-egg-coloured walls. The furnishings and bedding also reflected the different occupants and had a distinctly more feminine appearance."
The visit was particularly significant because, unlike the King's Saloon at Highley, the Queen's Saloon is not generally open for public viewing.
"It was a real privilege to be allowed access," John added. "We were made extremely welcome by everyone at the NRM and we're very grateful to Dean and his colleagues for giving up their time to show us around such an important piece of railway heritage."
As well as viewing the Queen's Saloon, the volunteers took the opportunity to explore the museum.
Photographs taken during the tour will be available for visitors to view at The Engine House, helping answer one of the most frequently asked questions about the SVR's own Royal Saloon exhibit.
Phil Ralls and John Rutherford on their recent visit to see the Queen's Saloon at the NRM
13 is a lucky number for 4150!
In June’s shed notes, Bridgnorth volunteer shedmaster Martin White reflects on the lasting impact of the Woodham Brothers scrapyard at Barry:
The big news this month is that 4150 has been steamed for the first time since it was sold for scrap by British Rail to Woodham Bros yard, at Barry, in June 1965.
At the time of writing, 4150 is yet to move under its own power, but that will take place in the very near future, and will lead to testing and running in.
Duncan Ballard, the SVR’s head of steam engineering, recently referred to the fact that 4150 is the 13th locomotive from Barry scrapyard that has been restored to working order whilst resident on the SVR.
The first of these to return to working order on our Railway was 46521, and that was 52 years ago in 1974. This fact is very real evidence of the dedication of many groups and individuals associated with the SVR over many decades.
Of these 13 locomotives, some are no longer based on the SVR, others are currently working elsewhere or out of service, or away from our Railway as exhibits or being overhauled.
But imagine the SVR without any ex-Barry locos at all. What would the standard gauge heritage railway movement be like in UK today if Woodham Bros had cut up all of the locomotives and none had been sold into preservation?
Our Railway might still exist, albeit with a much smaller collection of steam locomotives comprising those that were obtained directly from British Rail, London Transport, the Army, and National Coal Board, and a few industrial locomotives.
But how many others of the UK’s incredible array of standard gauge railway preservation sites would have come to fruition?
Without the Barry scrapyard locomotives, and potentially with fewer preserved railways, there might today be a greater pool of volunteers working on those railways that were able to thrive.
Also, the funds provided by ticket revenues and donations from enthusiasts might have been focused on relatively few heritage lines, steam centres and on fewer locomotives.
Our smaller fleet of locomotives would have meant that there was a much-reduced queue of locos awaiting overhaul. The Engine House at Highley may never have been constructed, as there would not have been the need to house six or seven out-of-use locomotives under cover.
But the knock-on effect nationwide of this reduced heritage rail movement may have been that fewer carriages, wagons, signals, signal boxes, etc would have been preserved. Thus, the rich variety of railway preservation we experience today would have been denied to us.
As the SVR moves into the new era as a Charitable Community Benefit Society, we should never forget how lucky we are that Keith Beddoes and his like-minded colleagues kickstarted the idea of saving our Railway, and that tenacious groups purchased locomotives, carriages and everything else that is preserved along the Valley.
How lucky are we that Dai Woodham’s men didn’t get around to cutting up more than 200 withdrawn locomotives?
4150's steam pressure gauge shows it's all working. Duncan Ballard
People
Familiar faces step into key roles at the Railway
The SVR has announced the appointment of two well-known members of its team to important new roles, with Victoria Evans becoming head of commercial and customer experience and Dan Noy taking up the position of facilities manager.
Victoria is expected to move into her new role within the next month. Although currently serving as executive assistant to the CEO, her connection with the Railway stretches back almost 30 years, having first joined the SVR’s catering department in 1996.
Over the years, Victoria has built extensive experience across customer service, hospitality, commercial operations and organisational leadership.
Her career has included managing onboard catering services, running her own hospitality business and leading customer-focused initiatives within the Railway.
Gus Dunster said: “Victoria is already well known across the Railway and brings a unique combination of experience, dedication and passion for the SVR. Her deep understanding of our organisation, together with her commitment to delivering excellent customer experiences and supporting our people, make her an excellent fit for this role.”
Dan officially took up the role of facilities manager on 1 June. A familiar face to colleagues across the Railway through his electrical and maintenance work, Dan’s responsibilities will now expand to include facilities management across the Railway, as well as oversight of the Railway’s cleaning teams.
His new role will focus on maintaining and improving visitor facilities, helping to ensure a consistently high standard across stations, public areas and carriages.
Chris Bond, head of infrastructure, said: “Dan is someone many people across the Railway already know and respect. He brings a wealth of practical experience, a strong understanding of the SVR and many innovative ideas for improving our facilities. His appointment will provide real focus on an area that is vital to our visitors’ experience.”
The appointments reflect the Railway’s commitment to developing talent from within its own ranks, with both Victoria and Dan bringing extensive experience, proven dedication and a long-standing connection to the SVR.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Congratulations to Lewis!
SVR Carriage & Wagon apprentice Lewis Kennedy recently received his official HM Government apprenticeship certificate.
He gained a distinction in all categories of his Carpentry & Joinery (Architectural Joiner) Level 2 course, which he undertook locally at Kidderminster College.
Having spent the first two-and-a-half years of his four-year SVR apprenticeship in Kidderminster Carriage Works, Lewis is currently working as part of the Kidderminster Carriage Shed team gaining experience in the broader range of activities required for day-to-day carriage running repairs and maintenance.
Lewis receives his certificate, flanked by Hugh McQuade and Martin White
Cleaning and operational support assistant vacancies
The Railway is recruiting for two people to work as part of a team maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards across SVR environments.
This role includes specialist cleaning of heritage carriage interiors, public station areas, corporate hospitality areas, offices and toilets as follows:
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One position at 16 hours per week (832 annualised hours per year) based at both Kidderminster and Bewdley.
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One position at 20 hours per week (1,040 annualised hours per year) – based at Bridgnorth.
Applicants should have cleaning experience, be confident using cleaning equipment, and demonstrate strong safety awareness.
The full job description and details of how to apply are available at svr.co.uk.
All change at Highley
The SVR is pleased to announce that Ian Baxter has been appointed to the role of station master at Highley.
This appointment will take effect from August 1 when John Ash steps back from the role, which also includes responsibility for Country Park Halt. Head of operations Steve Wainwright said:
“Ian brings a wealth of experience from the wider rail industry and many of you will know him from the many years and varied roles he has undertaken previously on the SVR. We wish Ian well as he juggles his new responsibilities with those of his day job and wish him luck with taking Highley station forward into the future.”
Head of stations Ian Latimer added:
“We also thank John Ash, the retiring incumbent, for the many years he has steered the team at Highley. Also, for staying on in the role whilst a replacement was recruited, despite having indicated his wish to retire earlier in the year, and finally for staying on in the role until the end of July to ensure a smooth and seamless handover to Ian.”
Ian is clearly relishing the challenge ahead and said, “Having worked at Highley Station for 26 years, and living in the Station House for 12 of them, I am looking forward to building on my predecessor John Ash’s 30-year tenure as station master, making the station work for our passengers and visitors every day, conserving its beautiful and historic GWR fabric, and leading and supporting the committed Highley Station team.”
Ian Baxter, Highley's new stationmaster
v1 11th June 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.