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June 2025
GWR 1450 with GWR Manor 7802 Bradley Manor arriving at Bewdley 1940s Weekend. KEVIN WHITEHURST
Welcome to your latest edition of Express Points!
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We’re right in the middle of our two ‘Step Back to the 1940s’ weekends, and the Railway is buzzing!
This month’s Express Points has some great news about the progress with repairs to the landslip at Mor Brook, which are going extremely well. We also hear of the success of our ‘Kids for a Quid’ offer at May half-term, and how well things went at last month’s Spring Diesel Festival.
As an SVR working member, you’re invited (along with shareholders, members and patrons or guardians of the SVR Charitable Trust) to come to the SVR Supporters’ Day next week, on Friday 20 June. If you’re not actually on duty on the day, there are a limited number of complimentary tickets still available, so make sure you don’t miss out.
And, as the Railway prepares to host the launch of ‘Inspiration’, the unique Railway 200 exhibition train later this month, it’s time to pre-book the time-slot for your free tickets to this once-in-a-lifetime attraction.
This month’s edition is packed with news from all corners of the SVR – and we hope you enjoy catching up on it all!
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Lesley Carr, editor
The Express Points team is Lesley Carr, Karen Crick, Will Scott, Gary Essex, Amy Baker,
Pete Cherry and Nicola Fox.
Contents
Scroll down or click on the item to be taken straight to it
What's new?
Impressive progress on embankment repairs
Significant progress has been made with repairs to the failed embankment at Mor Brook bridge since specialist engineering contractors CML took possession of the site at the beginning of the month.
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CML has already excavated more than 2,500 tonnes of material from the track formation and embankment, and has completed temporary culverting works on the watercourse below the bridge to facilitate full access to the embankment for plant and machinery. This will allow further excavation to take place around the collapsed wing wall of the bridge. The SVR’s project manager Antony Bartlam explains further:
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‘The next stage is to install a concrete footing. Then, CML will carefully lift in more than 100 huge Legato concrete blocks, each weighing around 2.5 tonnes, onto this to form a solid structure. The blocks are already on site, ready for use.
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‘Next, CML will backfill the embankment structure, using alternate layers of geogrid matting and imported aggregate, to tie the new wall into the embankment.
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‘They’ll place large L-shaped precast concrete units across the top of the bridge to form a strong base to carry the trackbed, ready for the reinstatement of the rail itself. It really is a very clever solution indeed, and CML’s progress is impressive, helped by the recent good weather.’
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CML are experts in rail infrastructure, but this particular project has brought some new challenges, as contracts manager, Stuart Hale, explains:
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‘This really is something different, not just a run-of-the-mill embankment failure. We needed to find a robust and permanent solution that we could build at speed, and which was affordable to a heritage line. It also needed to comply with the local authority’s mitigation measures, working around the watercourse. We’re very glad to now be at the ‘boots-on-the-ground’ stage and looking forward to getting this finished, hopefully with no undue problems.’
The SVR’s managing director, Gus Dunster added:
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‘It’s so satisfying to now be making real progress with this repair. We’ve had a lot of frustrating delays, but all of them were necessary. We needed to get clearance for the temporary culverting of the watercourse for example, along with ecological surveys to determine the impact of the works on wildlife such as otters, fish and crayfish. We also had to work with National Grid, whose high voltage power lines run right across the middle of the site. ​
‘As soon as the embankment failure happened at the end of January, we saw a tremendous groundswell of support from the public. Thousands of people have donated, and together with money from our insurance company, this has meant we could go ahead with this essential repair work to re-unite the whole length of the line to Bridgnorth.
‘Of course, the question everyone wants answering is – when can the SVR fully re-open? Well, we should have some definite news on that next week, together with the announcement of something rather special to celebrate the reunification of the full 16 miles of the Severn Valley line between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth!’
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Shareholder voting extended to 18 June
The deadline for shareholders to vote online before the AGM of Severn Valley Railway (Holdings) Plc has been extended to 2.30pm on 18 June.
This is because of a reported delay in shareholders receiving their AGM notification letter, which contains the password needed to register an online vote.
The letters were posted on time, but there have been delays in the postal system beyond the Railway’s control.
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This year, as well as the usual business of the AGM, shareholders are voting on a special resolution to authorise the conversion of SVRH to a Charitable Community Benefit Society, as part of the One Railway project.
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Register your shareholder vote at svrlive.com. You will need the password contained in your AGM 2025 notification letter.
Shareholders can also vote in person at the AGM which takes place at 1.45pm on Saturday 21 June at St George’s Hall, Load Street, Bewdley, DY12 2EQ.
‘The entire board of SVRH is strongly urging shareholders to support the One Railway special resolution,’ said SVR managing director Gus Dunster. ‘Converting to a CCBS will bring huge benefits to the Railway, such as reducing costs and enabling us to access additional streams of grant funding. It is going to help secure the financial future of the SVR.’
May half-term proves popular with families
May half-term brought thousands of families to the Railway, as they took advantage of the ‘Kids for a Quid’ offer.
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Young visitors were able to travel for just £1, and the Railway was packed with families enjoying scenic journeys through the Severn Valley.
It was a brilliant way to kick off the summer season, and the sunshine even made a few appearances!
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The offer proved especially welcome after a quieter start to the year, as visitor engagement manager Lewis Maddox explained:
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‘Our Kids for a Quid offer proved a real hit with thousands of passengers travelling during May half-term.
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‘So far this year, the impact of the Mor Brook landslip and the closure of the northern section of the line has meant a reduction of passenger numbers. It’s been wonderful to see the Railway so busy.
‘The Engine House at Highley was a favourite stop for many, with families exploring the exhibits, enjoying refreshments, and making the most of the hands-on activities. It was a joy to see so many children discovering the magic of heritage rail travel.’
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One parent shared on social media:
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‘We had a really enjoyable day with our young grandchildren. They were very excited to be on such a lovely train and enjoyed the rural views. We visited The Engine House in Highley which was fascinating, especially seeing the royal train.’
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‘We couldn’t agree more,’ added Lewis. ‘A huge thank-you to everyone who visited, and to our amazing staff and volunteers who helped make the half-term such a success.’
SVR delivers ‘biggest diesel gala of the year’
The Spring Diesel Festival between 15 and 18 May welcomed more than 3,700 visitors and saw 20 locomotives in action, for what organisers believe was 2025’s largest diesel event on the preservation circuit.
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‘What a fantastic show we put on!’ said managing director Gus Dunster. ‘Our Spring diesel event traditionally showcases the best of both heritage and modern diesel traction, and this year’s event was absolutely up there with the best.
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‘I’m delighted with what we’ve achieved here, especially with the added challenge of a shortened running line between Kidderminster and Hampton Loade only, due to the landslip at Mor Brook.
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‘We experienced some delays, mainly around the Kidderminster to Bewdley shuttle service and its associated run rounds and shunts at Bewdley, but nevertheless there were plenty of highlights across the four days.’
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The event saw a diverse range of visitors, including Freightliner’s Class 66 66509 and its Class 70 70020. There were two Class 56s from Colas Rail, a Class 69 from GB Railfreight, plus a West Coast Railways Class 37, a Class 57 from Locomotive Services Group, a Class 58 and a pair of Rail Adventure power cars, 43468 and 43480.
The visitors complemented members of the SVR home fleet.
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‘Whilst our visitor numbers were down compared to our equivalent event last year,’ explained Gus, ‘We were expecting this, bearing in mind the reduced line-length we’re currently able to operate on. For those who came however, the event clearly delivered a great experience, and we have had extremely positive feedback.
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‘A really good factor for us has been that secondary spend actually increased on 2024 at all locations except Bridgnorth, which remains cut off from the rest of the line because of the landslip.’
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Grab some free ‘Inspiration’ at the Severn Valley Railway
Don’t miss your chance to visit the once-in-a-lifetime ‘Inspiration’ exhibition train at Kidderminster Town station later this month and in early July.
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Tickets are free, but time slots must be pre-booked, as the SVR hosts this unique experience as part of the year-long, national celebrations for Railway 200, the 200th birthday of the modern railway.
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‘Inspiration’ is a fascinating and interactive touring exhibition train that tells the story of the past, present and future of Britain’s railways. Limited adult and child tickets are available at the SVR for 27, 28 and 29 June as well as 5 and 6 July.
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‘It’s wonderful that the Severn Valley Railway is the first venue in the country for this unforgettable event,’ said managing director Gus Dunster. ‘We know that it’s going to be a massive attraction for families and people of all ages, and we’re proud to host it at Kidderminster Town station as part of our 10-day celebration of Railway 200. This is definitely something you don’t want to miss!’
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Denise Wetton, Network Rail’s Central route director, said: 
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‘We can’t wait for ‘Inspiration’ to arrive at the Severn Valley Railway later this month. With the West Midlands at the heart of Britain’s railway, it’s only fitting that it makes its first stop here. We hope that thousands of visitors will enjoy learning about our important railway history and maybe even inspire the next generation to consider a career in rail!’
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The exhibition train ‘Inspiration’ will appear in a specially commissioned one-off livery and visitors will be able to hop on board to experience a voyage of discovery alongside the platform at Kidderminster Town station.
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The “Railway Firsts” carriage will chart the big moments in the last 200 years, journeying back in time to piece together the story of railways that actually started with the ancient Greeks. Visitors will be able to discover rail’s influence on everything we take for granted from the places we go, the jobs we do, the films we see and even the time on the clock.
There’ll be a “Wonderlab on Wheels”, providing an unmissable, interactive family experience where you can test out your scientific and engineering skills.
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And you can find out about some of the more surprising careers there are on the railway today, from saving the planet and making videos, to using coding skills and applying ecological knowledge to protect wildlife across the railway network.
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As well as being open to the public on five days of its 10-stay at the SVR, ‘Inspiration’ will also welcome hundreds of children on school trips between 30 June and 4 July.
Book free tickets for the ‘Inspiration’ exhibition train at svr.co.uk.
Please note, these tickets do not include travel on the SVR, which is payable separately.
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Other News
SVRCT is welcoming applications for grants
The Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust has recently made it possible to apply for grants online and is welcoming new applications from groups associated with the Railway.
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‘We’d love people to get in touch with us,’ said SVRCT chair Judith Meredith. ‘If you’re part of a rolling stock group, would like to make improvements to your workshop or other accommodation, need some financial assistance to create a display or interpretation or require equipment or training, or perhaps something else, we may well be able to help you.
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‘We’re able to fund all sorts of projects, providing they meet our objectives. Amongst the projects we’ve funded recently are the underpinning of Bewdley South signal box, an accessible toilet at Bewdley, road-rail vehicle training and seat re-upholstery in several carriages.
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‘Before you make an application, it’s a good idea to talk things through with us, so we can guide you on the best way to shape your application.
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‘Just drop us a line on our dedicated grants enquiry email, grantapplications@svrtrust.org.uk, with a brief outline of your project, and a number we can contact you on.’
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There’s more information at svrtrust.org.uk.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Love the SVR? Then tell others all about it!
Did you know that the Railway has a Talks Team, with various people who love to spread the word about anything and everything SVR to many different groups?
They talk to everyone from transport specialists, industrial historians, U3A and WI, through to schools studying leisure and tourism. Generally, the talks generate a donation (usually to the SVRCT) and some groups offer a contribution to travel costs. 
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Coordinator Jim Seaton is keen to recruit some new blood to the Talks Team:
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‘We’d love to hear from you if you fancy having a go. We’re looking for folk to talk enthusiastically about all aspects of the SVR – it can be an update, general guide/history, day in the life of a volunteer or even specific projects - Falling Sands and the restoration of Hines’ Coal Office are specific recent examples.
The aim is to inform and entertain and hopefully persuade folk they want to visit, or perhaps even join us as working members. Our talks are very much in demand from all sorts of groups.
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‘There’s a library of previous presentations that can be downloaded and modified as required plus a small selection of facts and history documents that can assist with the usual Q&A sessions these things entail.’
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If you’d like to know more, please contact Jim on either jim.seaton@svrlive.com or 07854 757459.
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LMS Mogul 13268 with the GW Set running off Oldbury Viaduct. KEVIN WHITEHURST
Inspiring volunteers needed
As reported previously in Express Points, the Railway 200 team are seeking volunteers to help deliver ‘Inspiration’, the Railway 200 exhibition train project.
Marking two centuries of railway history, the train will arrive on the SVR on 26 June and be based at Kidderminster station. The attraction is expected to welcome nearly 4,000 people, including 750 schoolchildren. 
There are currently volunteer vacancies available on June 27, 28, 29 and July 3, 4, 5, 6. This opportunity is open to everyone, with no requirement to be a current SVR volunteer/working member.
No qualifications or prior experience of volunteering are required, and full briefings will be given by the Railway 200 team, via Teams, ahead of the event.
Volunteers can commit to as few or as many days as desired and all that’s needed is to be aged 18+, have enthusiasm and a willingness to commit to contributing time, and to be able to be on site from 9.30am to 5.30pm. ​
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To volunteer to support the visit of ‘Inspiration’ to the SVR, please get in touch at lewis.maddox@svrlive.com 
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Volunteers needed for 'Inspiration', the Railway 200 exhibition train. NETWORK RAIL
Discount for ‘explosive’ Big Band Show
A limited number of discounted working member tickets are available for the Big Band Show on Saturday 14 June as part of the second 1940s weekend.
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This evening of live music at Kidderminster station will include tributes to Glenn Miller and the Andrew Sisters, and ‘Winston Churchill’ will make three rousing wartime speeches, set to a backdrop of inspiring music.
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Commenting on the event so far, 1940s committee co-chairman David Brattan said:
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‘The event last weekend was a huge success despite the occasionally wet weather. The Big Band Show, featuring our resident 18-piece swing band, played the hits of the era, and there was plenty of dancing along the platform.
‘The night ended with an explosive blackout and pyrotechnics.  We’re excited to do it all again this weekend!’
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Working members can purchase one discounted ticket for the Big Band Show at £5. To purchase a ticket, simply visit svr.digitickets.co.uk, selecting the Adult ticket.
To apply the discount, enter the code SVRVOL1940 at the basket stage. Discounted tickets may also be available on the day from the booking office, if available.
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Simulated air raid at the Severn Valley Railway's 1940s evening event. ROBIN COOMBES
Guy Martin and Francis Bourgeois visit for Channel 4 documentary
On 16 May, the Severn Valley Railway welcomed two familiar faces - Francis Bourgeois and Guy Martin - for a day of filming as part of an exciting new Channel 4 documentary, set to air this October.
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Their visit coincided with the SVR's Spring Diesel Festival, where they went up and down the line, train-spotted in Highley, and chatted with crowds of enthusiasts about the enduring significance of heritage railways and the vital role they continue to play in connecting generations and communities across the UK.
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It wasn’t Guy Martin’s first time at the SVR; he previously visited in 2012 to film an episode of his hit series How Britain Worked, where he got hands-on restoring a steam locomotive and laying track using traditional methods. Francis Bourgeois is also no stranger to the Railway, having recently visited the site of the landslip at Mor Brook bridge.
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Their latest visits are part of a special documentary celebrating Railway 200, marking 200 years since the dawn of the modern railway. The programme will follow Guy Martin as he travels the country, uncovering the history, present-day significance, and future of Britain’s railways.
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The SVR continues to host many filming jobs, which provide welcome extra revenue and money-can’t-buy advertising opportunities. The SVR will soon be seen on the big screen in two highly-anticipated feature films – keep your eyes peeled!
What's coming up?
1940s – One down, one to go!
Despite an unsettled forecast, the weather mostly held for the first weekend of “Step Back to the 1940s”.
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The first two days saw a range of attractions including vintage vehicles, singing, dancing, displays and re-enactors both at stations and along the line.
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Volunteers and visitors alike got into the spirit of the 1940s and donned their vintage outfits and an enjoyable time was had by all those involved. Music was supplied throughout the weekend including the Ronnies, Kitten Von Mew, George Formby on the ukulele and Zakk Dienn at Kidderminster with some classic tunes, all adding to the ambiance.
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Sunday afternoon was topped off with a fly-past over Kidderminster station from a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire.
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For those who missed last weekend, there’s another chance for Forties Fun this weekend, 14 and 15 June. Buy tickets online or on the day. On Sunday 15 June, it’s Kids for a Quid once more!
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Check out the website to plan your visit and book Step Back to the 1940s - Severn Valley Railway
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Railway 200: Trains Through the Ages – the line-up keeps growing!
The SVR’s “Railway 200: Trains Through the Ages” event just keeps on growing! Now, two narrow-gauge locomotives have been added to the line-up, alongside LNER Peppercorn Class A1 No 60163 ‘Tornado’ and HydroFLEX, the UK’s first hydrogen-ready passenger train.
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Guest locomotive ‘Chaloner’ will be visiting the SVR thanks to the Leighton Buzzard Railway, who have made the visit possible.
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Built in 1877 at De Winton's Union Works in Caernarfon, ‘Chaloner’ is an example of the distinctive vertical-boilered design used in the North Wales slate industry. For over 70 years, it worked in slate quarries, before being withdrawn in 1950 and entering preservation in 1960.
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With ‘Chaloner’, GWR 4930 ‘Hagley Hall’ and the world-famous LNER ‘Tornado’ in steam over the weekend, we’ll have over 130 years of steam locomotive development on display, with engines from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries.
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A second narrow gauge locomotive, ‘Holy War’, will also appear, with thanks to Bala Lake Railway. ‘Holy War’, Hunslet works No 779, was the last steam locomotive to work in any slate quarry in the UK (in 1969), ending almost 100 years’ association between steam locos and slate quarries.
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‘Chaloner’ and ‘Holy War’ will be in steam and running on temporary tracks at The Engine House, Highley, offering footplate rides on the weekend of 5 -6 July.
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Other attractions during the Railway 200 weekend at the SVR will include LMS Stanier Mogul 13268, paired with LMS carriages and a pre-grouping goods train and a Lancaster flypast, with thanks to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. The weekend offers the final chance to see ‘Inspiration’, the Railway 200 exhibition train on the very first leg of its UK-wide tour.
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This event is one not to be missed; purchase tickets today at: Railway 200: Trains Through The Ages - Severn Valley Railway
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
All aboard for an evening of murder, mystery and fine food
For those who enjoy a bit of drama, the first of two Murder-Mystery Evening trains departs from Kidderminster on 19 July.
Climb on board for a night of delicious food, engaging drama and a mystery to end all mysteries – A First Class Murder.
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The timeline is 1945 and the war is finally over, but celebrations have turned to tragedy… there’s been a murder and you must solve the mystery!
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Question the suspects and watch the action unfold on the train and on the platform. You must bring the murderer to justice before you reach the end of your journey at Kidderminster, but remember… don’t trust anyone!
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Pre-book at: A First Class Murder - Murder Mystery Evening - Severn Valley Railway
On-train summer dining experiences
There’s a whole menu of on-train dining delights awaiting you this summer at the Railway!
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SVR dining experiences make for an unusual gift or treat. Popular favourites include a Vintage Afternoon Tea, a Luxury Breakfast, Gourmet Sunday Lunch, Pie Train and the Bistro Express.
There’s something to please everyone who wants to splash out on stylish luxury. Together with Paisley Flour, a new Cheese and Wine on-train dining experience is now available to book on 30 August.
This summer sees the return of the popular Fish and Chip trains. Teaming up with Captain Cod’s Fish Bar, the SVR invites you to savour a delicious meal of freshly prepared fish and chips while soaking up picturesque views from the comfort of a heritage train carriage.
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The full dining-experiences calendar with details of all the above events is at svr.co.uk.
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
SVR joins with Modern Railways and GBRf for September charity gala
The SVR has teamed up with Modern Railways and GB Railfreight to host a two-day gala on 6 and 7 September, with all profits raised going to the Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital. 
A selection of the GBRf fleet will headline a weekend of freight loco haulage, including a Class 47 along with Classes 60, 66 and 69. Individual loco identities are not yet confirmed but GBRf will try to supply examples which have either not hauled a passenger train before or have rarely done so. 
As well as the visiting GBRF locos, a selection of the SVR’s home-fleet of steam and diesel locos will be operating. In addition, there’ll be attractions along the whole line, including a beer festival at Kidderminster, diesel-depot visits and model-railway displays courtesy of Modern Railways’ sister-publication Hornby Magazine.
The Branch Line Society will be operating its own charter to the SVR on 5 September, departing on the 7 September and ticketing information for this will soon be available.
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There’s more information at svr.co.uk and standard fares apply at the SVR. Save by booking in advance, or purchase on the day. 
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
A Class 37 theme for the Autumn Diesel Bash
This year’s Autumn Diesel Bash will celebrate 65 years of the versatile and incredibly popular Class 37.
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The event, taking place between Thursday 2 and Sunday 5 October, will feature four intensively-timetabled days, and several class 37s on the timetable. At present, 37248 is confirmed, with more to follow.
The Growler Group are the custodians of privately owned D6948 (37248), which is based at Toddington on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway.
The loco was operated by West Coast Railways Limited between 2006 and 2009, during which time it worked all over the national network, especially in Scotland. It became a permanent resident on the GWSR in 2010 and carries BR green livery and its pre-TOPS number, D6948.
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More visiting locos will be announced soon.
Last chance for Supporters’ Day free tickets
A limited number of free tickets are still available for the SVR Supporters’ Day next Friday, 20 June, when the Railway will be open exclusively and free-of-charge to SVR shareholders, members and SVR Charitable Trust Patrons and Guardians.
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‘This day is intended to say ‘thank you’ to our core supporters, who’ve stuck with us through some very tough times in recent years,’ said managing director Gus Dunster. ‘It’s also about celebrating everything wonderful about this very special place. 
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​The day offers travel on steam- and diesel-hauled services behind-the-scenes tours.
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Tickets are complimentary and available only to shareholders, members, working members and CT Patrons and Guardians. Each entitled person/couple/family will be able to bring one guest only, and places must be pre-booked, in order to prevent overcrowding. ​
To secure your tickets, please go to svr.co.uk and follow the instructions. 
A few tickets are left for the SVR Supporters Day on 20 June. KEVIN WHITEHURST
Across the Railway
Local nursery supports the SVR
Ashwood Nurseries in Kinver raised more than £1,000 for the SVR Resilience Fund by holding a private garden open day in April.
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Arley station volunteer Bob Morriss works at the nursery, and explains how the fundraising event came about:
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‘My boss John Massey knew of my long association with the SVR, and when he heard about the disastrous landslip at Mor Brook, he wanted to do something to help.
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‘John kindly offered to open his private garden adjacent to the nursery, for a special open day, all the entrance fees raised being specifically donated to the SVR Resilience Fund. This day was held in addition to the regular Saturday charity open days.
‘The open day turned out to be dry and gloriously sunny, and 114 people visited. Sincerest thanks are extended to all that attended, donated or contributed on the day to raise such a superb total for the appeal. My personal thanks go to John for opening his private garden specifically in aid of the SVR.’
Ashwood Nurseries has supported the SVR Resilience Fund
Permanent way work continues across the whole line
As usual, the SVR’s permanent way team has been busy over the last month keeping our track in top condition along the line. At the end of May, they descended on Mor Brook to remove the three panels of track that were affected by the landslip, ready for repair work to start.
North of the slip, work continues. A re-ballasting and levelling operation took place on Oldbury viaduct next to Daniel's Mill, with the help of volunteers from Network Rail. One of the SVR’s road-rail vehicles was moved by road to Bridgnorth to assist with trackwork at the north end of the line as well as operations at Mor Brook bridge, where the landslip took place.
Preparations are also underway for sleeper replacement work between Knowlesands tunnel and Eardington, with the team taking the opportunity to carry out much-needed maintenance work whilst the section north of the landslip is closed to traffic.
Meanwhile at Kidderminster, maintenance work took place on points 37B which are at the head of platform One and No 1 engine line. The screw holes in the sleepers which secure the rail chairs were worn, so a system called SpikeFast ES-50 sleeper repair was used.
This is a modern, patented two-part, non-foam polyurethane product used to fill holes in wooden sleepers. It retains screws and spikes better and for longer than traditional plugging materials. It is injected into the screw hole, fills the cavities caused by wear, and is ready for use in 10 minutes.
The product is used by railways across the world and enables an extended life for the SVR’s track, safely and at minimal cost.
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
The Autotrain to reappear at the SVR!
The GWR Autotrain was back on the line recently for testing in preparation for the SVR Supporters’ Day on Friday 20 June, and “Railway 200: Trains through the Ages” on 5 and 6 July. It hasn’t operated on the Railway since 2020.
GWR autocoaches were used for push-pull trains, with a driving cab at one end, allowing the driver to control the train without being on the footplate. This eliminates the need to run round at the end of each journey. The driver operates the regulator, brakes and whistle from the autocoach cab via a linkage system under the carriage, whilst the fireman creates vacuum for the brakes, and controls the blower and valve gear settings as well as firing. The driver, guard and fireman can communicate with each other by an electric bell system.
The combination of locomotive and either one or two autocoaches is known as an Autotrain, and they were mainly used on small branch lines. Locos equipped to operate Autotrains were mainly Pannier tanks and 1400 Class 0-4-2s, like the SVR’s 1450, which has recently returned to traffic following an overhaul. A handful of 45xx Class Prairie tanks were also auto-fitted.
The GWR and BR built 256 autocoaches between 1904 and 1954, all at Swindon. The SVR has two preserved examples, No 178, built in 1930 and No 238, built in 1954, and named ‘Chaffinch’. Both have received attention in Kidderminster Carriage and Wagon Works in recent weeks, with 178 receiving new wheel bearings and other works attended to, along with a full fitness-to-run (FTR) exam.
The testing and recommissioning period also allowed the reassessment of loco crews for operating the Autotrain, as an extra level of competency is required alongside normal loco crew qualifications. Look out for the Autotrain at the SVR Supporters’ Day, the “Railway 200: Trains through the Ages” weekend and other events during 2025.
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
SVR Explained: TTIs
Travelling ticket inspectors, or TTIs, are one of the volunteer staff teams most visible to passengers. But the role is about much more than checking tickets, as John Kitchen, the head of department explains:
Despite the name, the role has higher priorities than checking tickets; passenger safety is our number one role. We make sure people know how to get off the train if there's a short platform, or that they understand if they stick their head out the window, they might get grit in their eye, especially with young children. We also make certain all the doors are closed and the handles are in the correct position, to keep our passengers safe.
Being the face of the SVR is another part of the role - explaining the timetable, telling passengers about the Railway, how to make the most use of their day, and pointing out some of the sights along the line, such as the Safari Park. Not everybody knows that we go past it, and for young children, it's probably the highlight of their day.
We also have to protect SVR assets. Passengers might unwittingly damage some of the stock. If they stand on the seats, or do something else that's going to cause some damage, we need to act.
And then the fourth priority is the revenue protection – checking people are travelling on valid tickets!
We also help keep the train clean and tidy, collecting rubbish and make sure lost property is safely conveyed to one of the terminus stations.
In addition to all of this, we need to make sure the toilets are all stocked and fill the carriage water tanks from the trackside hoses, as well as draining them down at the end of the day when it’s frosty.
We always try to put two TTIs on a train and they work from the two ends towards the middle, stopping when they meet their colleague. Some of the busier trains, such as our Christmas services have a train manager as well.
We get asked all sorts of questions, and have to help people who don't understand our heritage stock. On more than one occasion we've had to explain to people that the doors don't open automatically, like on modern trains, and that there are no phone chargers in the carriages! Usually it’s questions about where to get lunch, or how to understand the timetable. We don’t want passengers to miss the last return train of the day.
We currently have around 70 passed-out TTIs but we are looking to recruit a few more. The role is suitable for people of all ages; our youngest TTI is 18 and our oldest is 86!
Yes, there are many similar questions and yes, you have to pick up litter, but it is a rewarding role, being one of the main points of contact for passengers who come to enjoy our Railway.
If you’re interested in joining the TTI team please contact the Volunteer Liaison Office on vlo@svrlive.com
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
S&T to the rescue!
The S&T department is called upon to work on more than signalling equipment. They recently received an SOS call from volunteers in the Bewdley machine shop where one of the lathes was faulty.
Upon investigation, the team discovered that one of three relay coils had burnt out in the three-phase power switching contactor which operates the main lathe motor. A contactor is an electrically controlled switch used for switching an electrical power circuit, usually controlled by a circuit which has a much lower power level than the one it is switching. In this case it controls a 415 volt three-phase supply to the lathe motor. The key component is a coil, or electromagnet, which closes the contacts when it receives power. The contactor dates from the 1960s, so spares or direct replacements were not an option.
Upon examination of the offending coil, the S&T team determined that they couldn’t repair it and decided to rewind a new coil on the existing bobbin. The old copper wire was removed from and new 0.09mm diameter enamelled copper wire was wound on to form a new 1400 Ohm coil. At just 0.09mm diameter, winding the new wire on is an extremely delicate operation, using the S&T department’s hand-operated coil winder to apply around 4,000 turns of new wire.
The rewound coil worked first time restoring the lathe to full operation. A great result, not just because S&T were able to help another department, but also because they’d got the lathe running again with a repair costing less than £10!
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Rolling stock
Plenty of comings and goings at Bridgnorth MPD
During the past month, road haulage has been the driving force for Bridgnorth Motive Power Depot, as volunteer shedmaster Martin White reports:
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The fleet of available steam locos at Bewdley has recently expanded. ‘Bradley Manor’ had been operating as the sole steam locomotive handling the Kidderminster – Hampton Loade services during most of May, but 75069 has now joined it. Whilst this news is welcome and may sound straightforward, the reality is actually a little more complex.
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The key factor has been a lot of coming and going by road. 75069 successfully passed its annual boiler exam and steam test, and then briefly visited the Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Steam Railway (GWSR) for their May gala event.
Pannier tank 7714 and Collet ‘auto’ tank 1450, have also been away visiting other railways, undertaking a long road journey to the Bodmin Railway for their gala. The pannier then also attended the GWSR event, as reported elsewhere in Express Points.
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A very busy two days in late May saw the return into Kidderminster of both 1450 and 75069, plus the delivery of 7714 into Bridgnorth. Incidentally, the heavy haulage vehicle that delivered 75069 then collected a diesel locomotive for delivery to the Bluebell Railway.
Each of these movements requires a degree of co-ordination and shunting. However, it’s not always straightforward, especially when two trailers arrive within three minutes of each other at Kidderminster! On this occasion, 1450 won the ‘race’, slight ahead of 75069’s tender!
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Upon its return, 75069 spent a short amount of time waiting in the carriage works yard at Kidderminster in the company of 1450. We moved it to Bewdley on Wednesday, 4 June.  1450 followed the 75’ to Bewdley on Friday 6 June after completing some engineering test runs and operational trials with the two auto coaches, Nos 178 and 238.
The loco has undergone a significant overhaul away from SVR, and the coaches, which themselves have received some recent heavy maintenance, hadn’t been paired with the loco for over four years. So, with some SVR auto-train operations scheduled in the immediate future, we’ve taken the opportunity to fully test the operational linkages between loco and coaches, before they commence public services.
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At Bridgnorth, the resident class 08 diesel shunter D3586 stood in during 7714’s absence, providing cab rides within station limits. Now with the pannier tank is back, we’ve stood down the 08.
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4930 ‘Hagley Hall’ has moved to Kidderminster in preparation for late summer requirements. However, on splitting the locomotive, we discovered some issues with the draw gear and need to address these before the locomotive can safely operate again.
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Finally, in what will hopefully be the final movement in this recent flurry of road haulage, Stanier Mogul 13268 is scheduled to move from Bridgnorth to Kidderminster on June 16.
Its winter maintenance and ashpan replacement are now complete.
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Having this number of locos based at the south end will present quite a storage challenge and requires some creative thinking!
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Hagley Hall after unloading at Kidderminster, awaiting reconnection to its tender. GARY ESSEX
Moving ceremony in honour of lost Navy aircraft carrier
A poignant ceremony has taken place at Kidderminster station to re-dedicate 50033 ‘Glorious’, named after the Royal Navy aircraft carrier which sank in 1940.
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Class 50 diesel locomotive, 50033 ‘Glorious’, was rededicated during the Spring Diesel Festival earlier this month, to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the ship sinking.
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Representatives from the Severn Valley Railway, the Class 50 Alliance and the Royal Navy attended, along with relatives of some of those who died on the ship, while Sea Cadets from Worcester and Sandwell provided an honour guard.
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The Railway’s managing director, Gus Dunster, opened the ceremony with poignant words on the history of the relationship between the names borne by various Class 50 locomotives and their naval counterparts.
Commanding Officer Ben Dando, 825 Naval Air Squadron, paid a heartfelt tribute to the legacy of HMS Glorious and the bravery of the crew and her escorts.
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The locomotive’s nameplate was re-unveiled during the ceremony and Squadron Leader (retired) Jason Davenhill played the Last Post. The ceremony ended with a blessing by the Rev Paul Roberts.
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HMS Glorious and her escorts, HMS Ardent and HMS Acasta, were all sunk by German battleships Scharnhorst and Gneisenau in the North Sea on June 8, 1940, with the loss of 1,531 lives.
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Re-dedication of 50033 and commemoration for HMS Glorious GUS DUNSTER
SVR hosts Freightliner celebration
On May 15, during the Spring Diesel Festival, Kidderminster played host to Freightliner as they celebrated their 60th anniversary by renaming one of their Class 66 locomotives.
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The unveiling of 66509's new name also marked the 40th anniversary of the Freightliner Retirement Association (FRA).
This was founded in March 1985 to allow retiring employees to continue the friendships they’d built up during their time with the company.
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More than 50 FRA members attended the joint celebration, where 66509 was fittingly named ‘Freightliner Retirement Association’.
After the unveiling of the nameplate, 66509 made its inaugural trip with its new name, hauling attendees on a trip to Bewdley and back. Speaking at the unveiling, SVR managing director Gus Dunster said: ​
‘It's really great to be able to host this naming ceremony. As well as being a heritage railway, the SVR works very closely with a good number of our industry partners in the mainline industry, and today’s event is a testament to that in many ways, with a large number of assets from mainline operators here for the weekend, and we’re very grateful to all our mainline operator colleagues.’
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Freightliner naming ceremony at Kidderminster. DAWN SPENCER
SVR saves the day at the GWSR
The SVR was able to step in and help save the day at the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway’s (GWSR) Cotswold Festival of Steam over the late May Bank Holiday.
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SVR locomotive 7714 answered an SOS from the GWSR when 34072 ‘257 Squadron’ (which was in turn replacing 34092 ‘City of Wells’), suffered a failed middle big end just six days before the event.
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7714 was not the only SVR locomotive in attendance at the GWSR.
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With the gala telling the story of the development of steam, the SVR's standard class 4 75069 was one of the earliest locomotives confirmed for the gala, representing the end of steam under British Railways. GWSR spokesman Ian Crowder said:
‘We are deeply grateful to our neighbour railway, the SVR, for being the ‘white knight’ that came to our rescue, with less than a week to go. Their doughty pannier tank replaced the Bulleid Pacific for most diagrams on the timetable. We certainly won’t forget the favour!’
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Unfortunately, the diversion of 7714 meant the SVR found itself without a suitable cost-effective steam locomotive for weekend footplate rides at Bridgnorth station. However, this paved the way for a rare opportunity as the Railway’s resident 08 diesel shunter D3586 stood in to offer cab rides as a replacement!
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In addition to the goodwill generated regarding future locomotive exchange, the hire of 7714 also brings welcome income to the SVR, at a time when every penny matters.
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At the Cotswolds Steam Gala the Severn Valley double header with 75069 piloting 7714 climbs past Chicken Curve. JOHN TITLOW
Duke of Gloucester departs after successful testing
Unique locomotive 71000, ‘Duke of Gloucester’ is preparing to return to main line running following testing at the SVR.
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The only Standard Class 8 ever built, ‘Duke of Gloucester’ was outshopped in 1954 but proved to be both uneconomical and a poor steamer. It was sent for scrap after just eight years. Rescued from Dai Woodham's yard at Barry, 71000 has seen much modification in preservation to unlock its full potential.
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The most recent overhaul was completed at Tyseley Locomotive Works and included, amongst other things, a boiler retube, new firebox tube plate, new wheel bearings, and a new centre crank axle.
Visiting the SVR for shake-down and running-in trials, 71000 arrived at Kidderminster on May 1, and was steamed the following week. On May 8 the locomotive received attention from both SVR and Crewe engineers and moved under its own steam up and down the yard, before being moved to Bewdley the following day.
Once the Spring Steam Gala was done and dusted, work continued, ready for locomotive to undergo its first test runs through Bewdley station on May 21. All testing was handled by Locomotive Services Ltd who operate and maintain 71000.
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Testing included light engine to Highley and return, loaded runs to Hampton Loade and back, hauling the six-coach air-braked sleeper set plus support coach.
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Following some remedial work on the left-hand crosshead, further runs were required and so passengers on the 24 and 25 May were treated to the sight of 71000 running in-between service trains!
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71000 left the Railway on May 27 for Crewe, from where it is expected main line testing will take place.
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‘It was great to be able to host LSL for the testing of ‘Duke of Gloucester’,’ said managing director Gus Dunster. ‘Contracts like this are an important alternative revenue stream for the SVR, and I’d like to thank our staff and volunteers who once again worked together brilliantly to facilitate this vital step in 71000’s return to main line traffic’.
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71000 'Duke of Gloucester' on a loaded test run at Highley. GARY ESSEX
People
In memoria
Arthur Hamson You may have already heard of Arthur’s unfortunate passing. He volunteered for many years in many departments, alongside his wife Beryl. Whenever his expertise was required, it was available. Beryl has advised us that Arthur's funeral will be held on 17 June at West Chapel, Bushbury Crematorium, Wolverhampton WV10 7JG, and after at the Conservative Club, 98 Neachells Lane, Wednesfield, WV11 3PR. If you wish to attend the reception, please notify either Catherine Martin on martinc.catherine@btinternet.com or the VLO on 01299 401776.
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We will issue an obituary in SVR News after the funeral, when a comprehensive review of Arthur's volunteering expertise is available. Barry Moreton, Volunteer Liaison Office
Thank you, Mr Mayor!
Longstanding SVR volunteer Ian Latimer recently completed his term of office as the Mayor of Bewdley. During his year-long stint as Mayor, Ian took the opportunity to champion the cause of his favourite heritage line, whenever possible.
‘It has been a great honour and privilege to have been asked to be Mayor of Bewdley over the past 12 months; it was a wonderful experience, representing the town, and advertising the SVR at the same time. 
‘The SVR is an important part of the town, as it brings many passengers into Bewdley by train during the year. 
‘And now it’s back to my other job, as stations manager, a role that covers the whole line. After 40 years as stationmaster at Arley, I recently stood down, handing over to a much younger successor, Catherine Martin, who I know will do a good job. I’ll still be around Arley though, as one of the assistant station masters, giving me more time to do other things.’
Gus Dunster and Ian Latimer. VICTORIA EVANS
v1 12th June
v2 13th June. Changed a photo on an article.
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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.