What is it?

Each year, more than 250,000 visitors step on board one of the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) heritage steam locomotives to enjoy a journey along the stunning 16-mile line, from Kidderminster in Worcestershire to Bridgnorth in Shropshire. When the service is running passengers can hop on and off to explore six historic stations, or head to The Engine House Visitor Centre at Highley, packed with interactive exhibits, including the reserve collection of full-size steam locomotives. The calendar of events usually includes spring and autumn steam galas, Forties weekends, ghost trains and Santa Specials.

When did it start?

For 101 years, between 1862 and 1963, the Severn Valley line formed part of the national railway network, running for 40 miles between Hartlebury and Shrewsbury, mainly operated by the Great Western Railway (GWR) and later by British Railway (BR).

The line closed to passengers in 1963 as part of a national rail rationalisation programme. Two years later, the Severn Valley Railway was established to preserve part of the line as a heritage railway. Today, it is largely run by unpaid volunteers and around 70 paid staff responsible for administration and commercial activities, plus regular track and rolling stock maintenance.

How can I help?

When the coronavirus pandemic first hit the UK, the SVR were already reeling from a 75 per cent drop in passenger numbers due to this year’s February floods. It’s thought that even after reopening, they are likely to have fewer passengers than before, which could affect revenue well into next year, posing a longer-term threat beyond lockdown. In a bid to safeguard its future, the Fight Back Fund emergency appeal was launched in March to help recoup the loss in funding. For those wanting to give a helping hand, a selection of SVR merchandise has been made available to buy, with all proceeds going towards the railway. A downloadable merchandise form is available via their website, where you can choose from jigsaws and DVDs to stationery and train sets, with prices starting from as little as £1.50. Annual loyalty passes can also be purchased on their website (from £125 for adults), which will become valid once the railway line officially reopens.

■ To download the merchandise form, buy a loyalty pass or to make a donation, visit www.svr.co.uk or call 01562 757902

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