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October 2025
Line-up of 37s at the evening photoshoot on 6 October. JACK BOSKETT
Welcome to your latest edition of Branch Lines!
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It’s been a hive of activity at the Railway in the past few weeks, with two intensive enthusiast events. We bring you reports from both the Autumn Diesel Bash earlier this month, which celebrated the 65th anniversary of Class 37s in service, and the Autumn Steam Gala which took place in the second half of September.
Both events were extremely well-received and were deemed operational and commercial successes!
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The Steam Gala was also the occasion for the launch into traffic of GWR 9581, a uniquely configured accessible buffet and saloon car. As well as attracting plenty of press attention, it was the ideal opportunity for our thousands of visitors to marvel at the craftsmanship and care that had gone into its design and creation.
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As well as news from across the Railway, this month we bring you the tale behind the flag that flies above Hanbury Cottage in Bridgnorth. If nothing else, it’ll help you sharpen your flag recognition skills!
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We hope you enjoy your October edition of Branch Lines!
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Lesley Carr, editor
The Branch Liness 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?
A ‘brilliant’ Class 37 event
The Railway is celebrating the success of its Autumn Diesel Bash, which this year was dedicated to Class 37s, to mark the 65th anniversary of the much-loved type 3 entering service.
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Almost 4,100 people attended across the four days. One enthusiast, who’d travelled from Cornwall to be at the event, wrote to the SVR afterwards, saying ‘From start to finish it has been nothing but brilliant, with plenty of awesome English Electric music on tap!’
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Ten examples of the Class 37 were at the event, and the line-up included both heritage vehicles and those still in regular main line service.
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Managing director, Gus Dunster acknowledged the widespread support that the SVR had received:
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“We’re incredibly grateful to many individuals and organisations, that have provided locomotives for this event. I want to thank West Coast Railways, Europhoenix Rail Ltd, Rail Operations Group, The Growler Group, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, the Wensleydale Railway, Loram, John Harris, Steve Beniston, Vince Minto and Kevin Jones. Without the sterling support and collaboration of this extensive group of SVR friends, we wouldn’t have been able to put on such a glorious event.
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“I’d also like to pay tribute to the dedication and professionalism of our team across our railway itself for planning and delivering another outstanding event. It’s been operationally and commercially successful and feedback from our visitors has been great.”
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The SVR’s next diesel enthusiast event is the Winter Diesel Day on 29 December. For more details and tickets, please visit svr.co.uk.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
Show-stopping Autumn Steam Gala
The SVR’s first major enthusiast event since the reopening of the full line after the landslip at Mor Brook, the Autumn Steam Gala, has been hailed as a resounding success, attracting more than 5,700 visitors across four days.
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Held between 18 and 21 September, the gala celebrated the Railway’s 60th anniversary with an ambitious and atmospheric programme of steam-powered action. The centrepiece of the Gala was a spectacular 60-hour continuous running schedule, with locomotives in action day and night from early Friday morning through to Sunday evening, bringing back overnight running for the first time in several years.
Guest locomotives 73082 ‘Camelot’ and Jinty 47298 impressed visitors with their debut runs along the line while Merchant Navy 35006 ‘Peninsular and Oriental S N Co’ drew significant crowds, keen to see the first-ever appearance of a Merchant Navy class engine at the Railway. A gauge glass fault saw the locomotive briefly withdrawn from service on the Sunday, but thanks to a speedy repair it was back hauling trains in the afternoon.
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Also garnering much attention was 813, which returned in its guise as Backworth Colliery No 11. In an event highlight, the Port Talbot saddletank was paired with visiting locomotive, and former colliery shed mate, NCB No 49, for an evocative double header.
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‘We delivered another showpiece event,’ said managing director Gus Dunster, ‘And the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. It was heartening to see the level of support and enthusiasm, particularly given the challenges of some adverse weather and a few late-running services. We’ll certainly look at the learning points for the future, but overall, this was a standout Gala.
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‘Well done to everyone across the whole Railway – your efforts are very greatly appreciated. Events like this don’t come together without a huge team effort from paid staff, volunteers, and our many supporters.’
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The guest engines joined a strong home fleet including 4930 ‘Hagley Hall’, 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’, 7714, 13268, 75069, and 1450 operating as an Autotrain, offering an impressive variety of heritage steam operations.
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
Impressions of the ASG
The final day of the Autumn Steam Gala was a feast for the senses as Nicola Fox from the Branch Lines team reports:
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The weather had not been the kindest for the preceding days, but by the time Sunday 22 September rolled around, inclemency had blown away leaving behind bright blue skies scattered with photogenic white clouds floating on the breeze. A perfect day for a visit to a gala!
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Thanks to the overnight running in honour of the SVR's 60th anniversary, the Railway had been in continuous operation for three days by the time Sunday dawned, yet there was no sign of flagging. Having chosen Bridgnorth for a mid-morning departure, the picturesque station was a lively scene, filling with passengers as 75069 simmered at the head of the LNER teak rake.
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In the yard, Merchant Navy 35006 ‘Peninsular and Oriental S N Co’ was receiving attention to effect a repair, and passengers spoke of its withdrawal with equanimity, having been reassured of its return for the afternoon; a prophecy which happily proved to be true. The choice of the ever-popular Hagley Hall, which had been in steam for the overnight running, to deputise in its absence, was met with approval.
Gone are the days when steam galas were attended mainly by enthusiasts, and the crowd on Sunday represented the full cross section of heritage attraction visitors. From enthusiasts to family groups, representatives from several generations were out enjoying their day, and there were even several toddlers getting their first steam railway experience.
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The delights of the day were not just visual; the unmistakable smells of a steam railway never fail to transport visitors to another time and, thanks to the lack of wind, bright and effervescent whistles gave distant warning of approaching trains while the throaty sound of locomotives hauling well-loaded trains echoed around the Valley.
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As often occurs with complex diagrams, the timetable had slipped slightly and, by the afternoon, trains were running around 30 minutes behind. This was largely met with humour and goodwill by the passengers; awaiting a train at Highley and hearing whistles, groups of visitors were gaily exchanging guesses as to which service might be approaching. The answer on this occasion was the unusual sight of a goods train, hauled by 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’. As one visitor commented: ‘There’s always something to see and I'm in no rush!’
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A highlight of the day was the Backworth pairing; the afternoon double-headed departure was well-loaded and some carriages soon became standing room only! Those too young to appreciate the significance of the pairing were still able to enjoy the occasion as their arms certainly got plenty of exercise, waving at the many observers out in the fields that cradle the line.
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The standout impression that the gala left was vibrancy. A line busy with service trains, goods trains, local services and double-headers. The unmistakable sights and sounds of steam locomotives, set against a backdrop of beautifully turned-out stations, busy platforms, welcoming staff and sun-warmed countryside.
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More please!
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
ASG is ‘a piece of cake’ at Eardington station
No-one was more pleased to experience the Autumn Steam Gala than the volunteers at Eardington station. Cut off by the landslip for much of the year, including the Spring Steam Gala, this was the first time in more than a year that trains once again stopped at Eardington, as James Lea reports:
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It was fabulous to welcome both new and old visitors to our unique little station at Eardington during the Gala. We met people from all over the world, including visitors from France, Belgium, Chicago, and Melbourne, and it was just fantastic that they had discovered our small station and the SVR.
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"It was lovely to see the station come alive again with lots of visitors." said stationmaster Steve Downs. "We sold out of cake by Sunday afternoon! It was also our first chance to show off this year's big project, the Goods Lock Up, which not only helps us to tell the story of Eardington and life at a small country station but also provided much-needed shelter when the heavens opened on Saturday."
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Managing director Gus Dunster and his assistant Victoria Evans made their first visit since our little station reopened to stopping traffic and it was wonderful to speak with them, and show them around the station, and share our plans.
Gus said, “From the moment you step on to the platform it’s impossible not to feel the positive energy around the place created by a team who are passionate about their station! From young to old, their enthusiasm is infectious and it’s hardly surprising they’ve therefore achieved so much in a relatively short period of time.
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“The cakes at Eardington are said to be the best on the Railway and there’s some stiff competition for that title for sure! However, I must say the coffee and walnut I enjoyed was absolutely delicious and really rounded off a perfect time at this delightful station!"
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Many visitors commented on the new goods lock-up on the platform, and it was very rewarding to see that people appreciated the hard work that went into it.
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One of the highlights of the Gala for me was seeing a Jinty running again on the Valley and it really looked the part when it stopped at Eardington on the Friday.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
ASG - A special time and a special place
Volunteer shedmaster Martin White sent these evocative words, describing his experience of Saturday overnight running during the Autumn Steam Gala:
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It’s shortly before 1 am and I’m sitting on a bench at the South end of platform 1 at Bridgnorth, savouring a can of beer, having ‘booked off’ my footplate turn in the MPD 20 minutes earlier. 7802, ‘Bradley Manor’ is at the head of its train, the rather delayed 00:05 hrs to Kidderminster, whilst in the headshunt to the loco yard, 35006 is shunting. ‘Only on the Severn Valley would we use a Merchant Navy as a shed pilot’, joke the crew on the Manor.
A few minutes later, Pannier Tank 7714 arrives with its train into Platform 2. Dozens of passengers cross over the footbridge to join the train in the other platform and the signalman hurries with his duties. In quick time, the starting signal changes from red to green, and he delivers the token to the eager crew on 7802. The ‘right away’ is given, and 7802 heads southwards, its exhaust illuminated by the orange glow from the firebox.
The signalman is quickly back to his work and clears the yard exit signal for Stanier Mogul 13268 to steam out and attach to the train in platform 2, its crew looking forward to a night turn. 7714 meanwhile has uncoupled and, having run round the train, it drops quietly back into the MPD yard, for its fire to be disposed of and the loco stabled. In the distance, the sound of 7802 can still be heard heading into the Valley…​
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It's now shortly after one o’clock in the morning and in the space of 15 minutes, without even having to leave my bench, I’ve seen four steam locos on the move. I comment to a visitor, standing on the platform taking it all in, that it’s the middle of the third decade of the 21st century and I wonder if there is anywhere else on planet Earth where we could witness such activity at such an early hour. ‘That’s what makes SVR so special’ he replies, ‘nobody else can do it’. We bid each other goodnight. He heads off to ride the overnight trains and I go to my berth in the volunteer accommodation, adjacent to the platform.
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Passing in the night: Visitors 73082 Camelot and 35006 P&O. BOB GREEN
SVR champions accessibility with unique heritage coach design
The Autumn Steam Gala marked a milestone in the Railway’s drive for inclusivity. On 18 September, GWR 9581 entered service as a uniquely configured accessible buffet car and saloon.
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Funded by the Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust, the project blended heritage authenticity with modern accessibility. SVRCT chair Judith Meredith praised the eight-year restoration: “This is a perfect example of blending modern-day needs with heritage authenticity… finished to the Severn Valley’s very high standards, using the skills and ingenuity of many hands.”
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Managing director Gus Dunster added, “This superb accessible buffet and saloon further boosts the SVR’s already impressive range of accessible coaches. We’ve been working towards running every service with accommodation for wheelchair and mobility-aid users, and the conversion of 9581 takes us much closer."
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Originally built in 1928 as GWR 5043, the coach spent 30 years as a third-class compartment vehicle before conversion into a workshop and eventual withdrawal. Acquired in 1981, it later became the foundation for an ambitious plan to create a fully accessible saloon and buffet car.
Rebased on the Swindon diagram H33 bow-ended diner design, it was renumbered GWR 9581, a class long-since scrapped.
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The SVR’s LNER Carriage Group, led by volunteer Richard Gunning, oversaw the transformation:
“We didn’t just want to rebuild it as an accessible coach – we wanted it authentically appealing, practical, and welcoming.”​
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Work began in 2017 at Bewdley, where extensive rot required new bodysides. Authenticity was carefully maintained: a GWR art deco-style bar now includes a low-level section for wheelchair users, and a fully accessible toilet with outward-opening doors has been finished in period décor.​
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The carriage offers two main areas – a buffet and a saloon – each with wheelchair spaces. Restored GWR steam-heating covers, green fan-pattern upholstery, and low-level emergency stop-pulls reflect both heritage and inclusivity.
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Despite pandemic delays and complex repairs, the coach has been completed to the highest standards. Finished in gleaming GWR chocolate and cream, GWR 9581 stands as a benchmark for accessible design in the heritage railway sector.
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Make sure you see the wonderful craftsmanship of 9581 next time you’re at the Railway!
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
RailStaff Awards 2025
You can help the SVR on its way to winning some prestigious rail industry awards, by casting your votes online – but you’ve only got until Sunday 12 October to make your voice heard!
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The Railway is nominated in three categories for this year’s RailStaff awards.
Competition is very intense, as these awards cover the whole of the UK’s rail industry and there are many nominations in each category.
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You can vote for the SVR in the following categories:
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Project team or person award (under £5 million) – The Mor Brook bridge team
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Rail Engineer of the Year – Antony Bartlam
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Rail Ambassador of the Year – Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster
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The public vote determines which 15 nominations will go through to the final judging panel. This means your votes are crucial to helping the SVR on its way to victory.
It takes a matter of seconds to vote, so please add your endorsement to the SVR’s three nominations at https://railstaffawards.com/RSA25/en/page/nominations-2025 before next Sunday, 12 October.
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The winners of the awards will be announced on 27 November 2025.
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Thank you so much for your support for the Railway!
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
Other News
A lasting way to support the Railway you love
Have you ever thought about how you’d like to be remembered? By leaving a gift in your Will to the Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust, you can help safeguard the future of the Railway for generations to come.
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Now the Charitable Trust has teamed up with Talbots Solicitors, who are offering 15% off the cost of writing a Will when it includes a bequest to the SVR Charitable Trust.
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Over the years, legacies have made possible some of the most important projects at the SVR – from the Carriage Shed at Kidderminster to the Heritage Apprenticeship Scheme. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference.
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As volunteer Malcolm Broadhurst puts it: “I want to make sure that the Railway survives me and outlives me.”
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SVRCT chair Judith Meredith added, “Around 40% of our income comes from legacies, so you can see how important this is. It really is a vital part of our fundraising.”
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For more information on Talbots’ services, please contact Scarlett Wellings on 01384 889345.
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If you’d like to know more about pledging a gift in your Will, you can look on the Charitable Trust’s website or email legacies@svrtrust.org.uk
Malcom Broadhurst is an SVR Charitable Trust Guardian
‘Flagging up’ the SVR’s coal sources at Bridgnorth
Eagle-eyed readers might have spotted a striking flag flying above Hanbury Cottage, next to the loco yard at Bridgnorth. If you’re wondering what’s behind this, mechanical team leader Will Marsh reveals all:
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Many of my footplate qualified colleagues will likely agree when I say that one of the most common things we get asked about during a footplate turn is “Where do you get your coal from?”
My usual response is “Out of the ground! However, this sparked a conversation with my fellow ESMP colleague Gary Williams about how we could go about advertising this fact, in a bid to answer the question before it is asked!
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We spotted the flagpole outside Hanbury Cottage that was, at the time, flying a very tatty Shropshire flag.
This was the ideal opportunity to create a unique talking-point across the Railway, and the idea to fly the national flag of whichever country our coal originates from.
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Two days and one Amazon delivery later, a Venezuelan flag could be seen flying above the Bridgnorth coal pile. Tongues were very soon wagging over what this flag was, and why was it being flown.
In a time where the even the St George’s Cross is holding political connotations, we’re utilising this opportunity for something informative and to create a unique talking point.
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In the weeks leading up to the Autumn Steam Gala, our coal supplier informed us that the next delivery would be of Kazakhstan origin (via a dockside in Italy.) So, another quick scramble to Amazon was arranged to order the appropriate flag for this batch.
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It’s always possible that another new source will become available in the future, and it is our full intention for the Bridgnorth flagpole to represent this regularly asked question.
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And you never know, should the Highley Mining Company reopen its doors in the future, you can be sure that a new Shropshire flag will be marking the occasion!
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
Get ready for Christmas at the SVR’s online shop
As the festive season approaches, why not make sure you’re prepared with the help of the SVR’s online shop?
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To help count down to the big day, there are two SVR advent calendars, featuring wintry scenes at Highley or Bewdley. Or how about a pack of SVR Christmas cards (pack of 10) at £5.99, or a stylish glass Christmas Bauble, that’s available in two designs?
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The new Santa’s Steam Special children’s jumpers are perfect for a chilly day - and for stocking fillers, the SVR and Railway-200 pin badges are a great choice.
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All profits go towards supporting the work of the Railway. Browse the online shop and place your order in plenty of time for Christmas delivery at svrshop.co.uk.
Catch a bus to get to the Severn Valley Railway
The SVR has partnered with Select Bus Services, to encourage more people to travel to the Railway by public transport.
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Passengers using routes to travel to Bridgnorth from Telford, Shifnal, Shrewsbury, and Much Wenlock will be able to receive a 10% discount at cafes and gift shops across the Severn Valley line, on production of their bus ticket or pass.
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Ben Brown, Select Bus Services managing director, said:
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‘We’re very excited to be entering into partnership with the Severn Valley Railway to bring more visitors to this very popular heritage railway. We have several routes (113-116 and 436) travelling into Bridgnorth, the SVR’s northern terminus station, and connections on route 297 can be made at Bridgnorth or Kidderminster. Our single fare cap of £3 is great value and is available through to March 2027.’​
Lewis Maddox, the Railway’s visitor engagement manager, added:
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‘We’re keen to encourage as many visitors as possible to leave their cars at home and travel to us by public transport wherever possible. Our new partnership with Select Bus Services enables us to do just that, with the bonus of discounts at our leading heritage attraction for bus passengers.’
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A number of Select bus routes make the popular Severn Valley Railway accessible without using a car
Next phase of Kidderminster platform extension now underway
The second phase of the enabling work for the Kidderminster platform extension has begun.
This involves the relocation of point rodding and the realignment of the track leading to Platform Two and the vehicle and barrow crossing, which currently runs along the station side of the signal box. The work will see points No 42, at the footbridge end of No 2 engine line, moved towards Bewdley.
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The first phase was the installation of the Radyr signal (see the September Edition of Branch Lines) which provides signals for both platforms, replacing the 'temporary' signals installed in the late 1980s.
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When Kidderminster Town was first designed, the plans incorporated platforms long enough for nine-coach trains, however at the time, the available funding was limited, so the full design was never completed.
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Following recommendations from the Office of Road and Rail (ORR), the statutory body that oversees the main rail network as well as heritage lines like the SVR, plans were put in motion to extend the existing platform.
This will allow nine-coach trains and the engine to fit comfortably on the platform, with the loco stopped in the ‘run-round’ position, thus avoiding the last coach being set off the end, as happens now. This practice carries the risk of potential injury.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
What's coming up?
A weekend of railways great and small at The Engine House, Highley
The O Gauge Get Together returns to The Engine House at Highley over the weekend of 18–19 October, offering visitors the chance to combine a heritage day-out with a captivating exhibition of model railways, displays, and rare locomotives.
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First launched in 2020, the event has gone from strength to strength and is a highlight of the autumn calendar at the Railway.
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“This show has grown from a simple idea into something we’re really proud of,” said event co-organiser Nick Willcox. “It’s not just for dedicated modellers; it’s for anyone who enjoys railways. Visitors can see some wonderful layouts, meet the people who build and run them, browse the trade stands, and of course take in the incredible real-life engines and artefacts that fill The Engine House.”
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A strong line-up of model layouts includes Sherton Abbas, Brook Street, Coldharbour Lane, Exeter St George, Norman Colliery, Brixham, Worcester South Quay, Netherwood Sidings, and Halesfield TMD. The exhibition will also feature leading model railway traders such as Buzz Models, Connoisseur Models, Dapol, Ellis Clark Trains, Finney7, Joe Lock Model Railways, Moore View Models, Ragstone Models and Yellow Shed Designs, along with displays from Bridgnorth Station SVR, the Gauge O Guild and the Model Electronics Railway Group.
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Another highlight is this year’s limited-edition wagon, specially commissioned to mark the show. Based on a local prototype from Pearson of Kidderminster, once a coal and builders’ merchants at the town’s station, the wagon has been painstakingly recreated from a single photograph, with expert advice to ensure an authentic result.
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Advance booking and further information are available at svr.co.uk.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
Miniature gala for Bridgnorth
To mark the end of the season, Bridgnorth station will be hosting a steam gala with a twist on 1 and 2 November.
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The County of Salop Steam Engine Society’s (COSSES) miniature steam section returns with a line-up of more than 10 miniature road-going steam engines.
Courtesy of section secretary Albert Stephenson and friends, the locomotives on display include a Foden steam lorry, Burrel steam roller and Fowler ploughing engine, as well as a fascinating Waterous engine.
Despite its unusual appearance, the latter is a modelled on a production run of more than 2,000 examples constructed in Ontario for use in North America.
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Bridgnorth station master Chris Thomas said, “These exhibits will make for a wonderful steamy atmosphere at Bridgnorth and one well worth coming to see. It will be a delight for us all to see such impressive examples of miniature engineering in operation, and such a wide variety of different ideas.”
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This mini-gala weekend marks the end of ‘normal’ running, before services pause in preparation for the Christmas season later in the month.
Bridgnorth station hosts its own mini steam Gala. CHRIS MURR
Magical Christmas experiences now include a relaxed option
The Railway has two brand-new events for Christmas, with services starting on 29 November. The Elf Express departs from Bridgnorth station, while the Santa’s Steam Special starts out from Kidderminster.
Selected Santa’s Steam Specials will operate as ‘relaxed’ services, to prioritise comfort and inclusivity.
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Lewis Maddox, the SVR’s visitor engagement manager, said:
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“The Elf Express begins its journey at Bridgnorth, and is a superb, interactive experience that will get everyone Christmas-ready. On board the steam-hauled train, a cast of mischievous and merry elves will dazzle and entertain, bringing the magic of Christmas to life for everyone.
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“Meanwhile, the Santa’s Steam Special departs from Kidderminster, at the other end of our line, whisking passengers away to Arley for the Great Christmas Train Rescue. This unique show is completely different to anything you’ve seen before. Santa himself appears, along with Polly the polar bear and a scheming villain, Victor Von Sneeze.
The show includes some awe-inspiring puppetry, courtesy of War Horse’s designer Matthew Forbes.​​
“Following the success of our relaxed experiences last year, we’re expanding the offering for 2025 with relaxed Santa’s Steam Specials on 7, 14 and 21 December.”
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The SVR has its own Accessibility Working Group to advise on achieving relaxed experiences. The group’s chair, Dawn Spencer, explained:
“Sometimes crowded spaces, loud noises or unpredictable elements can prove overwhelming, meaning that some parents might be reluctant to bring their children to an unfamiliar environment such as a railway or theatrical performance.
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“We’ve worked to dial things down for the SVR’s relaxed Santa Special services, to ensure the whole experience of a train ride and a pantomime are welcoming and stress-free but still have all the festive joy and magic.”
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The Elf Express (Bridgnorth) and the Santa’s Steam Special (Kidderminster) take place at weekends from Saturday 29 November and on Christmas Eve.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
All aboard for a frightful journey….
A thrilling ride awaits on board the popular annual Ghost and Scream Train services, on Thursday 30, Friday 31 October and Saturday 1 November.
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The Halloween-themed adventure starts and ends at Kidderminster, where Disco Daddy will be spinning some favourite tunes to help get you in the spirit of Halloween, from 4pm to 9pm.
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Once on board the train, hold on tight as the train passes through haunted stations on the way to Arley – the home of the living dead!
It is definitely not for the faint-hearted and remember - beware of trains that go toot in the night!
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Tickets are selling quickly with availability now limited.
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Please note the Scream Train is suitable for 18+ only, and along with Ghost Train services, it must be booked in advance
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
The Christmas Cracker Express is back!
The Railway is delighted to announce the return of the Christmas Cracker Express, which last ran in 2019. Suitable for primary schools, nurseries and playgroups, passengers can enjoy a very special train journey this festive season.
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Departing from Kidderminster, groups travel in the comfort of vintage carriages to Highley. During the journey, Father Christmas will be on board the train and will visit passengers in their seats.
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The Christmas Cracker Express departs from Kidderminster on selected dates in December, with two departure times and three packages to choose from. One adult travels free with every 10 children.
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Please help to spread the word to your contacts at schools, nurseries and playgroups! See svr.co.uk for detailed information.
All aboard for a half-term steam adventure
This half-term break, families can step back in time to the golden age of travel, as the Railway operates for nine consecutive days throughout the school holiday, from Saturday 25 October through to Sunday 2 November.
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“Our railway runs through some spectacular scenery” said Lewis Maddox, the SVR’s visitor engagement manager. “And the autumn colours really enhance that – it’s a wonderful time of year to spend a day on the train.”
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Mid-way along the line is The Engine House Visitor Centre at Highley, where families can let off steam in the outdoor play area, or get hands-on sorting mail in the travelling post office. Why not enjoy lunch on the balcony as trains go by?
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The Engine House is open on train operating days from 10.45am to 4.30pm (last entry 4pm).
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Further information at svr.co.uk.
Christmas Gift Fayre
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You’ll be spoilt for choice at the Christmas Gift Fayre taking place on the weekend of 25 and 26 October at The Engine House Visitor Centre, Highley.
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A whole host of suppliers will offer a wide range of gifts and products. If you’re looking for an unusual gift or stocking filler, there’ll be lots to choose from, including hand-crafted jewellery, stained glass, wooden crafts, candles and tempting treats.
Got 2 Sing choir will be there on both days, performing classics that will be sure to get you in the festive mood.
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The Engine House will be open from 10.45am – 4.30pm (last entry 4pm) each day to ensure you can shop ’til you drop!
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Entry to the Christmas Gift Fayre is free, but the best way to get to The Engine House is by heritage train travel and you’ll be able to travel by steam- or heritage diesel-locomotive haulage.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
An evening of music and festive cheer
The Carol Trains are back, bringing a popular evening of seasonal cheer on selected dates this December.
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Departing from Kidderminster, you travel through the darkness on the train, arriving for a heart-warming Christmas concert at The Engine House, Highley.
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Enjoy live music on the concourse at Kidderminster, festive singing on board, and a joyful performance among the locomotives at The Engine House. With mulled wine, mince pies, and songs from across the eras, it’s a feel-good celebration for the whole family!
Across the Railway
Elf Express and Santa Steam Special will receive their own headboards
Things have taken on an early festive flavour at Bridgnorth paint shop, where production is taking place on specially commissioned headboards for the Elf Express and the Santa Steam Special.
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Volunteer Bernard Green is pictured putting the final touches to one of the headboards, which will take pride of place on the steam locomotive hauling the SVR’s new Christmas experience, the Elf Express, which will depart from Bridgnorth on selected dates from 29 December.
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Volunteer Bernard Green, applying the final touches to the headboard for the SVR's Elf Express train. LEWIS MADDOX
The Railwayman’s Arms is honoured by national newspaper
Next time you’re sipping a pint in the Railwayman’s Arms at
Bridgnorth station, you can congratulate yourself on a very wise choice – the SVR pub has been named as one of The Telegraph’s 500 Best Pubs in England!
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These listings celebrate the very best that the country has to offer visitor, as Ben Ross, The Telegraph ‘s head of travel explained in the award letter:
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“Here at The Telegraph we’re very aware that the great British pub is under threat, with more than 2,250 closing during the last five years. We hope that our 500 Best Pubs in England guide will encourage millions of people to discover some of the country’s finest venues.”
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Proudly displaying the accreditation in the window of the Railwayman’s Arms, pub manager Samantha Hayward said:​
“We’re thrilled to have been included in this guide. There’s been a pub on this site since 1861, so in that time we’ve learnt a lot about what it takes to keep people coming back! It’s about great beer, a warm welcome and the wonderful atmosphere of a working railway just outside the door.”
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Cheers At the Railwaymans Arms Bridgnorth station SVR
Investigating a Track-Circuit Fault at Bewdley South
The mid-week S&T team recently investigated a track-circuit fault at Bewdley South number 30T.
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Track circuits are vital for determining whether a section of track is occupied or clear, thus ensuring the signalman and signalling system know the line’s status.
When a circuit fails, it can disrupt interlocking and cause service interruptions. On single lines, such faults require pilotman working to authorise train movements safely.
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Track circuits divide the line into electrically isolated sections, each separated by insulated rail joints. A low-voltage direct current is applied at one end, while a relay coil at the other detects the presence of voltage. When no train is present, the relay is energised, showing the line as clear.
When a train enters, its wheels short the rails together, removing voltage from the relay and indicating the section is occupied.
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The fault at Bewdley South reduced the resistance needed between the rails for the relay to drop. Engineers tested this using an adjustable resistance box to determine the resistance level at which the relay dropped out and re-energised.
Track components can influence circuit performance. At Bewdley South, concrete sleepers with rubber pads between the chairs and rails were used. Over time, these pads deteriorate, and hold-down screws can contact the sleeper’s steel reinforcement. Moisture ingress through cracks can further reduce insulation, while degraded insulated rail joints can also cause failures.
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To identify affected sleepers, the team applied a higher-than-normal alternating current voltage to the track and used a CAT scanner (Cable Avoidance Tool) to detect current leakage between the rails. Twenty-seven sleepers within the 440-yard section showed signs of electrical leakage.
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This diagnostic process enables the Permanent Way Department to target and replace faulty insulating pads, which form part of the track rather than an S&T component. Interestingly, the temporary ac supply improved the sleepers’ internal resistance, though rain will likely reduce it again until permanent repairs are made. Once the defective pads are replaced, the track-circuit reliability should be fully restored.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
Vegetation management and re-ballasting – update from the permanent way department
As well as looking after the track, the permanent way teams also manage the lineside vegetation, drainage and fences that belong to the Railway.
The Sunday volunteer team from Bridgnorth have spent the last few Sundays clearing a large amount of vegetation growth along the front of The Engine House at Highley, giving visitors, as well as viewers on the Railcam, a much better view of the line at the south end of Highley Station.
The whole length of the fence line along the Engine House car park now has a good view of passing trains.
Back on the track, the SVR’s full-time staff have been busy with re-ballasting several sections of the line. The ballast needs regular attention and topping up.
Once it has been laid into position by the Railway’s train of Seacow ballast wagons, the RRV (road rail vehicle) and its attachments get to work levelling and tidying the ballast using a ballast plough and brush to clean surplus stone from around the rails and drop it in the correct place.
The ballast shoulder plough vehicle has two wings which can be adjusted to alter the angle and area from which they collect surplus ballast from or spread it across.
It’s also used to collect surplus ballast from the cess and force it over the rail and into the four-foot. The ballast brush uses the hydraulic power from the RRV to power brushes which sweep excess ballast off the track.
The teams are currently working on the relocation of track at Kidderminster in preparation for the platform extension.
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Rolling stock
Testing times at Bridgnorth MPD
Whether prepping visiting locomotives or bringing longstanding projects to a conclusion, it's been all about testing at Bridgnorth MPD, as volunteer shedmaster Martin White reports:
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Phew - we made it! Four locos were delivered, examined, tested and along with the home fleet, they all performed almost faultlessly during the Autumn Steam Gala. And since then, all four have left the Railway by road, as has 13268, which is attending the Great Central and East Lancs Railways Gala events during October.
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The only steam loco ‘failure’ during our steam gala was 35006, ‘P&O Line’, which missed its first round-trip on Sunday morning, being replaced by 4930 ‘Hagley Hall’ which had been hauling one of the overnight services.​
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The fault that prevented it running was a relatively minor issue, but one with important safety critical, consequences. Whilst the loco was being prepared for service that morning it was noticed that one of the two gauge frames in the cab, when tested, was behaving unusually, being very slow to refill.
These gauge frames are used by the loco crew to observe the level of water in the boiler, and are deemed critical for the safe operation of the loco, hence the need to investigate and resolve the issue. When the faulty gauge was shut off and stripped down the cause was quickly found and rectified in time for it to resume operations only slightly later in the day than planned.
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Leading up to the Gala, NCB No 11, more commonly known as saddle tank 813, was completed in time to have some test runs to prove it was ready for public service. Four intensive days of use during the Gala will have given it a good shake-down and there will doubtless be a few tweaks needed.
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With the Gala now a receding memory, attention turns to the business as usual, maintenance and running repair activities on the steam loco fleet. For example, 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’ was due a routine washout the weekend after the Gala, a task which is a regular undertaking for volunteers at Bridgnorth.
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Of the projects within the works, the big news is that the boiler for ex-GWR Prairie Tank, 4150 has successfully passed all its standalone testing and has since had a lot of lagging and cladding fitted and has been craned into the loco frame chassis in the boiler shop, for what should be the final time.
On Thursday 2 October, it was back in the main works for re-assembly of the locomotive. The side tanks will be refitted, everything bolted-down and all the countless components and bits of pipework refitted, the large majority of which are ready and waiting.
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Also from the boiler shop, the extensively rebuilt boiler from ‘Dunrobin’ has now commenced its testing cycle. The completion of the work on these two boilers will mean that ‘Taw Valley’ is expected to have its boiler removed for overhaul in the boiler shop in the not-too-distant future.
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GWR 1450 and 813 aka NCB No 11 and lots of steam in the dark at Bridgnorth Friday evening. JOHN SHERRATT
‘Wheel-y Good Raffle’ rolls out to fund 2857 overhaul
The 2857 Society has launched its latest fundraising drive – the aptly named Wheel-y Good Raffle – to help meet the £275,000 cost of overhauling GWR 2857, with ten cash prizes up for grabs, including a top prize of £1,200.
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The Society has printed 100,000 tickets, offering a potential income of £200,000.
Each book of 10 tickets costs £20, and Society chairman Harry Bradley is urging supporters to get involved. “We’re budgeting on £20,000 income from this,” he said. “Anything above that would be a bonus! To us, £20 on a book of raffle tickets is worth every penny; it’s an investment in another 100,000 miles of preserved steam running.”
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Harry explained that even a modest return would make a big difference. “If just 25% of the tickets were sold and returned to us, we would raise the £37,500 we need to pay for our new driving wheel tyres.​
The raffle really is a vital contributor towards ensuring we can manage the overhaul of 2857 successfully.”
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Raffle books have been sent out with the autumn 2025 edition of SVR News and will also be included with the November edition of The 2857 Society newsletter. Tickets will be available in person at the O Gauge Get Together (at the Engine House, Highley on 18 and 19 October) and at the Winter Steam Gala (3 and 4 January).
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You can also request raffle books by emailing harry.bradley@svrlive.com.
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The Society currently holds around £225,000, and aims to have the full overhaul cost banked by April 2026.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.​
v1 9th October 2025
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Any opinions or views expressed in this newsletter are entirely the opinions of the contributors, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Directors of Severn Valley Railway (Holdings) PLC. which owns the Severn Valley Railway, Severn Valley Railway Company Limited, the members of which are responsible for its operation, or the Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust.