December 2025
75069 awaits departure from Arley during the Santa trains. DAWN SPENCER
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What's new?
It’s been a ‘rollercoaster’ of a year!
As we near the end of 2025, the SVR’s managing director, Gus Dunster, reflects on the highs and lows, and looks ahead to 2026:
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Firstly, I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported the Railway through thick and thin this year.
It has been a truly eventful 12 months, with moments that lifted our spirits and others that tested us more than we ever expected. In every sense, it has been a rollercoaster.
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We began the year full of optimism, eagerly anticipating the Railway 200 celebrations and the 60th anniversary of the SVR in preservation.
There was so much to look forward to. But that sense of excitement was quickly overshadowed when we discovered the catastrophic landslip at Mor Brook bridge, near the northern end of the line. Overnight, our world changed.
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The news was devastating, and for a time we could only operate along 12 miles of track between Kidderminster and Hampton Loade.
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Once the initial shock passed, we did what the SVR does best: we got on with the job. Drawing on the collective knowledge, skills and relationships that make our Railway so special, we set about rebuilding the embankment and bridge. The scale of the challenge was immense, but the determination shown by everyone involved was even greater. The speed and efficiency with which the work was completed amazed many, and rightly so.
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By late July, we achieved what had once felt impossible: the full line reopened. Watching ‘Flying Scotsman’ haul our reopening service, under perfect summer skies, was one of the proudest moments I have ever experienced at the SVR. It was a day that embodied hope, teamwork and sheer tenacity.
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The months that followed allowed us to get firmly back on track. Our autumn events were outstanding. The Steam Gala brought four first-time visiting locomotives, including the historic debut of a Merchant Navy class engine, 35006 ‘Peninsular and Oriental S N Co’. It also featured a spectacular 60-hour continuous running schedule. Next, the Diesel Bash celebrated 65 years of the iconic Class 37, with 10 locomotives, heritage and main line, joining us for four unforgettable days.
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Right now, we’re delivering two brand-new Christmas experiences, the Santa Steam Specials and the Elf Express, both already proving firm favourites with visitors.
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Looking ahead to 2026, I feel cautiously optimistic. For the Railway to thrive, we must continue to evolve, manage costs carefully and broaden our appeal. The One Railway project and our transition to a Charitable Community Benefit Society will underpin this, alongside the new five-year strategy that’s now in development.
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I wish you a very happy Christmas and a prosperous 2026.
HRA triple recognition for the SVR
The SVR is celebrating after being shortlisted in three categories of the Heritage Railway Association Annual Awards 2026, in a year when the judges had a record-breaking 110 entries to choose from.
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The SVR has been named as a finalist for:
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The Rolling Stock award for its unique restoration of Great Western Railway coach No 9581 into an accessible buffet and saloon car
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Innovation of the Year award for the Boogie Lights Express train, which will return for the second time in February and March 2026
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Rising Star award for young SVR project leader Jack Baldwin, and his instrumental work on the HydroShunter project, the conversion of a former 08 diesel shunter into a hydrogen-powered vehicle
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Steve Oates, chief executive of the Heritage Railway Association, described this year’s competition as “the most hotly contested ever, in an outstanding year, truly worthy of Railway 200.”
Reacting to the news, SVR managing director Gus Dunster said:
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“We are thrilled to have been shortlisted in three categories of the 2026 HRA awards. It's a tremendous honour and genuinely feels like an early Christmas present for everyone involved with the Railway. To be recognised across such varied categories shows how highly the SVR is regarded within the heritage railway sector, and we couldn't be more proud of the dedicated teams and individuals who've earned their places as finalists.’
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The winners of the HRA annual awards 2026 will be announced at a high-profile ceremony in Llandudno in March 2026.
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Working Timetables will build momentum for 2026
The Severn Valley Railway will enter 2026 from a position of renewed strength, following a year of determined progress and steady resilience. In 2025, the Railway delivered its most ambitious service since 2019 and reopened swiftly after the Mor Brook landslip in late July, demonstrating the adaptability and commitment of its teams.
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Since 2020, the SVR has adjusted its timetables and operations to manage rising costs and changing visitor demand while contending with coal supply challenges, energy price increases and infrastructure pressures. This measured approach has enabled the organisation to maintain stability and build a platform for future development.
Visitor engagement manager Lewis Maddox said, “2025 is proving just how passionately people feel about the SVR. Their support, along with the dedication of our teams, gives us real confidence for the future.”
Several operational improvements shaped 2025. Staggered morning and afternoon departures helped regulate passenger flow and enhance the visitor experience. Reinstating a Bridgnorth-based service using DMUs, alongside selected steam and diesel workings, increased flexibility and supported cost efficiency. These gains were made possible by careful resource management and the commitment of volunteers and staff across the Railway.
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These achievements form the basis of the proposed 2026 Working Timetable, which aims to deliver efficient, well-filled services while sustaining volunteer engagement and meeting passenger expectations. The plan takes account of the wider economic climate and anticipates limited growth in visitor spending, ensuring operations remain financially sustainable. Operations manager Matt Robinson said, “The 2026 timetable strikes the right balance between ambition and responsibility. It protects the SVR’s future while keeping quality at the forefront."
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The 2026 season will run from February half-term through to a Winter Steam Gala after Christmas, following a structure like 2025 but adding selected off-peak midweek operating days in April and October. This approach broadens access and supports continued growth in appeal. Underpinning the programme is a commitment to strong financial management, data-driven decision-making and ongoing investment in quality, safety and the visitor experience.
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Together, these plans reflect a forward-looking strategy that strengthens the SVR’s resilience, honours its heritage and ensures it remains a valued and vibrant part of its community.
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The DMU waits at Bewdley station during Bewdley town lights switch on. ANDY TAYLOR
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Other News
SVRG board clarification
In November's Express Points/Branch Lines we incorrectly stated that Michelle Bevon was stepping down from the role of SVRG vice chairman. However, this is not the case, and Michelle is continuing in this role. We have amended the online version of the newsletter with the correct information.
National award for the Greatest Gathering
The Railway is celebrating with Alstom, after their nomination for the Greatest Gathering scooped a top prize at this year’s RailStaff awards ceremony.
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The SVR’s involvement in this milestone event was considerable. Many SVR volunteers were at the event to support the SVR’s presence, as the largest exhibitor over three days in early August. Managing director Gus Dunster was a leading member of the core organisational team that spent months orchestrating the biggest-ever gathering of rail vehicles seen in the UK, at Alstom’s depot in Derby.
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“This event was one-of-a-kind,” said Gus. “Its legacy for the whole rail industry is going to last for many years. More than 45,000 people visited the event in person, and the global outreach is now estimated at an incredible 500 million. This event was truly history in the making.
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“So many people put their hearts and souls into making it happen. Thank you to everyone at the Severn Valley Railway who played a part in this, and who helped to ensure we stood out as a shining example of heritage rail in the modern world.”
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Three other SVR nominations were shortlisted for further RailStaff awards but missed winning the top prizes on the night. However, the fact that the Railway was a finalist in the prestigious national RailStaff awards, and the only heritage organisation to be represented, shows the SVR’s tenacity and ambition, and has ensured a high profile alongside its main line colleagues.
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Gus on the right with friend and former colleague James Dobson who first conceived the idea for the Greatest Gathering
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Cracking Christmas Specials!
The SVR welcomed hundreds of passengers to Kidderminster on 29 and 30 November as well as 6 and 7 December, as it launched the first two weekends of its brand-new Christmas Specials.
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Families are describing the experiences as ‘magical’, and ‘memorable’, with many first-time visitors commenting on how hard the staff work to make the event special.
Whether booked onto the Elf Express, which starts at Bridgnorth, or heading to see the Great Christmas Train Rescue travelling on the Santa Steam Specials from Kidderminster station concourse’s winter wonderland, families are whisked away for a magical train ride not to be forgotten.
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"We had a fantastic opening weekend for our Christmas Services,” said visitor engagement manager, Lewis Maddox. “The Elf Express got off to a fantastic start, as did Santa, despite 75069 failing upon departure from Kidderminster on its first trip. We’ve worked closely with our new partner Wise Owl Theatre to create something truly special for families, and it’s proving a huge success. Feedback has been fantastic, and we made some tweaks to both experiences for the second weekend to really heighten the immersive nature of the offering.”
Tickets for the Elf Express are now completely sold out with only limited availability on the Santa Steam Specials, which run on weekends and on Christmas Eve.
For more information visit svr.co.uk.
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What's coming up?
SVR (Stourbridge) Branch forthcoming meetings and speakers
The SVR Stourbridge Branch has announced its programme for the beginning of next year. Meetings take place at the Bonded Warehouse, Canal Street, Stourbridge, DY8 4LU.
The meetings are always on the first Wednesday of the month and start at 7.30pm.
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7 January – Keith Hodgkins will talk about ’Exploring Scotland by Rail’, with heritage lines included.
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4 February – A talk from the SVR’s managing director, Gus Dunster.
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4 March – John Titlow ‘From the SVR lineside’.
Getting 2026 off to a steaming start
While most heritage railways are pausing after a busy festive season, the SVR will be hosting its third annual Winter Steam Gala, on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 January.
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Preparations are already underway for the two-day festival of steam, which will feature six locomotives from the home fleet, operating a busy timetable between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth.
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The inaugural Winter Gala in 2023 defied expectations and, due to its huge success, has become a fixture in the calendar. The event can draw more than 2,000 visitors to the Railway, at a time when there is usually little opportunity for revenue-earning trains.
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Representing the Railway’s GWR heritage, this year’s Winter Steam Gala will have a distinctly Western flavour with GWR locomotives 1450, 7714 and 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’ running on both days.
Flagship locomotive 4930 ‘Hagley Hall’ will appear on Saturday and Stanier Mogul LMS 13268 and BR Standard 75069 will complete the planned line up of locomotives for the weekend.
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Visitors will experience the Railway at its best, enjoying the atmospheric sights and sounds of winter steam, the cosiness of steam-heated carriages and the chance to fill up on hot food and drinks at the station cafes, restaurant kiosks and pubs. The Engine House will open on both days.
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For more information, or to book, visit svr.co.uk.
Get the right sort of ‘blues’ at the Winter Diesel Day
The Winter Diesel Day is back, and sure to replace any post-Christmas blues, with some BR Blues instead!
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One of the more recent fixtures in the SVR Calendar, the third annual Winter Diesel Day will take place on Monday 29 December. Featuring home-fleet and visiting locomotives, the event promises a busy timetable between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth, plus a couple of special guest locomotives.
The inaugural event in 2023 drew over 1,000 visitors, 2024’s event improved on those figures, and, with a superb line up, the 2025 event looks set to be just as crowd-pleasing.
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Leading the line-up are guests Class 37s 37418 and 37508, which appear courtesy of LORAM and Steve Beniston. They are joined by Class 17 ‘Clayton’ D8568, making its first runs of this year. Other locomotives include Class 20 20048, Class 33 33108, and Class 46 46045.
Representing the Class 50s are 50007 & 50033 ‘Glorious’, with Class 52 Western D1015 ‘Western Champion’ completing the locomotive line up. Fans of multiple units can enjoy the sight of both Class 101 and 108 DMUs on service trains.
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GWR 1450 and GWR 7714 will be making low-key appearances, providing steam heating to combat the winter chill and keep passengers toasty and warm.
Visitors can make the most of their day out with a trip to The Engine House at Highley, as well as sampling the finest real ales in the SVR pubs.
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For further information visit svr.co.uk
Boogie Lights Express - the best musical night out, on
board a train!
In the early months of 2026, the Boogie Lights Express is guaranteed to brighten the skies and blow away those winter cobwebs! After its triumphant debut at the Railway last year, Boogie Lights has been shortlisted in the Innovation category at the Heritage Railway Association Awards – see separate article.
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This incredible sound-and-light show train consists of thousands of coloured LED lights and LED wristbands, creating a kaleidoscope of different colours and flashing patterns.
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Passengers on board get to enjoy the fun and take part in an interactive show hosted by the legendary ‘Voiceover Man’ (as heard on Britain’s Got Talent and X-Factor).
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The experience is perfect for a lively night out with friends and family. The Boogie Lights Express departs from Kidderminster on Friday and Saturday nights from 13 February to 14 March 2026.
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The first 100 tickets for each Friday night train are on sale at a discounted rate. However, don’t delay in booking, as this offer ends on 31 December. Why not buy tickets for this incredible train as an unusual festive gift? More information and booking details are at svr.co.uk.
Festive Season services start on Boxing Day
The Railway is closed on Christmas Day, as even SVR volunteers need a little bit of respite to enjoy some festive relaxation. However, on Boxing Day, everything gears up again, and there’s plenty on offer.
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Festive season services run between Friday 26 and Sunday 28 December, then again on Tuesday 30 December to Friday 2 January.
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On Monday 29 December, it’s the Winter Diesel Day – see separate article.
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On Wednesday 31 December, there’s a New Year’s Eve Special!
Combining the power of diesel traction with the magic of steam, this event combines four round trips between Kidderminster and Highley, starting at 6.25pm from Kidderminster, with the final service arriving back after midnight, allowing passengers to see in the New Year in style.
On Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 January, it’s the Winter Steam Gala – see separate article.
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7714 crossing Oldbury Viaduct. KEVIN WHITEHURST
Across the Railway
Cub scouts return to Bewdley station
Susan Wassall, Bewdley station volunteer and passionate advocate for railway safety, recently welcomed the Wyre Forest 9 Cubs back for another educational evening. After hosting them last year, she was delighted to arrange a return visit, this time surrounded by festive Christmas decorations rather than Halloween ghosts:
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I was contacted a few months ago by the local WF9 Cub group to enquire if I would be willing to host them again at the station after the success of the visit last year.
I was more than happy to host again, so this was arranged for Thursday 27 November, which we felt was much more suitable for the eight to 10-year-olds, as we were decorated for Christmas.
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The evening started with a welcome talk, an outline of the planned activities and some information about moving safely around the station, as we only had the Christmas and station lights on and it was dark.
I was able to introduce them to Craig Sharp and James Broughton, who very kindly gave up their evening to assist with the signal box visits.
As we had 24 children, it was agreed that we would split them into four groups of six according to their cub colour groups: blue, red, green and yellow. One group stayed with me for a safety session where we discussed the dangers of playing near railways.
They were surprised to learn that a locomotive could take up to a mile to stop, and they certainly understood when I compared its weight to elephants! We talked about standing well back from the platform edge, not running, and how to encourage friends to stay safe too.
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The next groups enjoyed time in the driving school container, where they tackled Christmas railway-themed word searches and decorated wooden trains and ornaments to take home. The final group headed to North Box with Craig, where they had a go at lever pulling and sending and receiving bell codes from Bewdley South with James.
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After rotating each group through all the activities, we gathered to share what they had learnt. Some even expressed an interest in volunteering one day. I was particularly pleased that a few of the girls want to be signalmen.
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My thanks go to Craig Sharp, James Broughton, Rob Green, Andy Wassall and James Pearson for their support in making the evening a success.
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Tamper testing, track-moving and much more – on the
SVR permanent way
With two new Colas Plasser & Theurer Unimat 08-4x4/4S Tampers visiting the Railway during the last few weeks, there’s been a lot of activity along the line.
The machines came to the SVR to undergo testing and commissioning as well as improving the SVR’s own track.
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Colas have been bringing their machines to the SVR regularly for several years, and the last pair of tampers visited in April 2024.
The high-tech machines initially survey the track and log faults that need rectifying. They then use their tines to pack ballast in the required areas.
The work included the removal of several accommodation crossings (used by farmers and private households) to level up the track beneath.
The volunteer permanent way teams have been busy assisting with track-moving work at Kidderminster for the platform extension as well as undertaking regular maintenance tasks along the Railway.
Bridgnorth volunteers have recently completed a long programme of removing overgrown vegetation on the land in front of The Engine House at Highley, giving much better views of the passing trains. They have recently replaced sleepers in the siding at Hampton Loade.
Meanwhile, the Bewdley team have been carrying out levelling and packing operations at Arley, using the powered Robel ballast packers to rectify dipped joints, where the ballast slumps under a rail joint.
They have also replaced several long sleepers, known as crossing timbers, on the points of Platform 1 and EL 1 at Kidderminster, taking the opportunity to carry out maintenance on some of the busiest sections of our track during the quiet period before the start of the Christmas services.
Rolling stock
9581 – a big thank you from the Charitable Trust
The SVR Charitable Trust, which funded materials used in the restoration of GWR 9581, has commissioned a special film to thank everyone involved in this remarkable and unique project.
This includes volunteers, individual donors and grant-making bodies. See the video for a guided tour of the coach!
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7802 Bradley Manor heading a staff train on 5 December before it was withdrawn from Santa services the following day ALAN CORFIELD
People
In memoria
Terry Brooks passed away in hospital in Worcester on 7 November, his condition having deteriorated since suffering a stroke while at home in Kidderminster on the previous Sunday. He was 83.
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Terry was one of the first few people who supported the idea of re-opening the Severn Valley line back in 1965 and having succeeded in that aspiration, he served the Railway for over 40 years.
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His contribution to the Railway was quiet but exercised with very effective leadership. Some will remember his creation of the very first motive power, a chain-driven permanent way trolley propelled by a motorcycle engine!
Terry’s funeral was held at Stourport Crematorium on 3 December. Barry Moreton, Volunteer Liaison Office
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Joan Lent, also known as Jo, sadly passed away on 11 November. Jo was a member of the on-train buffet team over many years and during that time always commenced her duties from Bridgnorth, as did many other buffet volunteers, one of whom was Stephen Skewes. He remembers Jo fondly, as always a very pleasant person to volunteer with, who carried out the tasks required of her with expertise and goodwill.
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Jo’s funeral takes place at 2pm 15 December at St Johns Church, Wolverhampton Road, Essington WV11 2BX, and all friends are invited. We send condolences to Jo’s family and friends at this sad time. Barry Moreton, Volunteer Liaison Office
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Doris Nelson It is with great sadness that I must share news of the passing of one of Arley’s older volunteers, Doris Nelson. For those of us lucky enough to remember her and her beloved late husband Les, it is a sad day.
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Her funeral is being held on 11 December, the day Express Points goes to press. Rest in peace, dear friend. Catherine Martin, Arley station master
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Space precludes fuller obituaries appearing in Express Points. These appear in internal NBIs and later in SVR News.
Volunteer Draw
This month we have four winners for the £20 gift voucher to spend in SVR shops
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The winners are:
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Rob Furlong - Bridgnorth Station.
Matthew Carroll - Signalling.
Keith Brown - Pway.
Jeremy Fulthorpe - Erlestoke
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Congratulations to our winners!
75069. KEITH WILKINSON
Signing off…Martin’s last guarding turn
Guard Martin Weeks had a very festive end to his career as a guard on the Railway on the first weekend of Christmas services.
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On Saturday, he did the last two trips of the Elf Express, and the moment was captured with the team at Bridgnorth at the end of his turn.
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The following day, he worked the second Santa Steam Special, and is pictured at Arley with the loco crew.
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Having reached the upper age limit for guarding duties, Martin will still play a role within the department, assisting the competency section.
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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.