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April 2025
Bradley Manor on a loaded test run Monday 7th April KIERAN HARDY
Welcome to your latest edition of Express Points!
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Two very important news items dominate this month’s edition of Express Points. Firstly, the very welcome announcement that the Railway’s insurers are to settle the claim for repairs to the landslip that’s cut off the northernmost section of the line. And next, confirmation that, following extensive consultation, the SVR is pressing ahead with its restructure plans, to better fit the Railway for the future.
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We’ve got the details on both these important stories, plus much more from around the Railway, including updates on Gala guests, involvement in Railway 200, rolling stock news, upcoming events and much, much more.
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We very much hope you enjoy reading it!
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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?
SVR to move ahead with landslip repairs
The Railway has announced that it can now move ahead with repairs to the landslip it suffered at Mor Brook bridge in late January. This follows a decision by the company’s insurers to settle its claim in respect of the incident.
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The insurers have agreed to pay for the full reinstatement of the bridge’s wing wall and stone arch as well as the embankment itself. The railway says that the final costs will be significantly more than half a million pounds.
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Managing director, Gus Dunster explained more:
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‘We are delighted with this decision by our insurers, which means we can now move ahead with fixing things. Nevertheless, the SVR is still going to be responsible for funding a substantial excess as part of the settlement.
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‘We are still in negotiation with the insurers about the exact amount, but thanks to the generous donations that supporters have made to the SVR Resilience Fund and the SVR Charitable Trust since the landslip, we are confident that we will be able to cover this.
‘What’s important here is that our insurance company’s acceptance of the claim means we will not have to launch a full-scale appeal for the landslip repairs, which would have meant further delays before we could put things right.’
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In conjunction with its insurers, the Railway has appointed civil engineering contractors CML to carry out all the works required at Mor Brook to reinstate the line. SVR infrastructure management and permanent way teams will be working with CML to provide logistical support and carry out work related to the track.
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Head of infrastructure Chris Bond said:
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‘Firstly, CML must carry out essential and detailed civil engineering design work. Over the next three to four weeks, our own permanent way team will remove track in preparation for the main contract works to commence.
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‘Subject to statutory approvals from the Environment Agency and National Grid, we hope to start the main contract works within six to eight weeks.
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‘Timescales are still subject to the production of a final programme of works, and we will provide an update on this in due course. Clearly, at this stage it is impossible to pin down a finish date. This will depend on many variables, such as the weather, procurement of materials and gaining statutory approvals. It is unlikely to be completed before the middle of the summer and it could be later, depending on these variables.’
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‘The delay in starting has of course been frustrating for everyone concerned,’ added Gus Dunster. ‘However, an important factor has been the need to wait for our insurers to make their decision. Had we made an earlier start, it could have jeopardised our claim.
‘I would like to pay tribute to both Antony Bartlam, our consultant civil and structural engineer and SVR volunteer, and Chris Bond, our head of infrastructure, for the dedication and hard work they have already put in to get us to this important stage. This has been a highly complex situation to resolve, and it was important to move carefully and slowly to ensure a proper and long-lasting solution, rather than rushing in to attempt a quick fix.
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‘Once again, on behalf of the Railway, I want to thank everyone who has donated to help us. We are humbled at the level of support that we’ve received.’
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Pway volunteers clearing vegetation from the Mor Brook slip area GARY ESSEX
One Railway Project – full steam ahead!
The Railway has confirmed its intention to progress with ‘One Railway’, the radical organisational restructure that it announced in December 2024.
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This follows a period of intensive consultation with shareholders of the train operating company, Severn Valley Railway (Holdings) Plc, and with members of the Severn Valley Railway Company Limited, the separate organisation that looks after membership and volunteers.
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‘We’ve held a series of face-to-face and online meetings for our stakeholders,’ explained Gus Dunster, the managing director of SVR (Holdings). ‘The feedback we got from the many people we spoke to was overwhelmingly positive. People understand why we need to change our structure – in fact for many people, it can’t come soon enough!
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‘We’ve answered many detailed queries from shareholders and members about the changes, and the overall message we received about our proposals was extremely supportive.
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‘Nothing came out of the consultation that represents an obstacle to the One Railway Project or a reason not to proceed – though we have modified the details of a couple of proposals around joint memberships and travel entitlements to meet the concerns raised.’
The ‘One Railway’ restructure will see the conversion of SVRH into a Charitable Community Benefit Society (CCBS), followed by an amalgamation with the Severn Valley Railway Company Limited. The third member of the SVR family, the SVR Charitable Trust, is wholly supportive of the plan and the way is open for its involvement in the future, but it cannot currently participate in the process.
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‘Converting to a CCBS will unlock huge benefits for the SVR,’ said Charlie Wright, a director of the SVR Company Limited who has been closely involved with the ‘One Railway' project. ‘We will be able to access new funding streams and make significant cost savings as a result. It’s important that we move these plans forward at the earliest opportunity, to strengthen the Railway’s financial position, in what continues to be a very uncertain economic environment.’
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Shareholders will vote on the conversion to a CCBS at the Annual General Meeting of SVRH in June. Then, members will vote on their organisation’s amalgamation with the new entity at the SVR Company Limited’s AGM in August.
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‘This is an ambitious timescale,’ added Gus Dunster. ‘And there are challenges. However, it is the clear route to take, so we can unlock the benefits as soon as possible. We have instructed and briefed Bates Wells, the specialist law firm helping us on this project, and are working through their due diligence questions.
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‘We hope to be able to action the changes by the autumn, with the aim of completing these by the end of 2025.’
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
‘Galatea’ to guest at Gala
The Severn Valley Railway has confirmed that LMS Jubilee 45699 ‘Galatea’, currently running as 45627 ‘Sierra Leone’, is the final member of its trio of guest locomotives at the Spring Steam Gala, between Friday 18 and Monday 21 April.
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The visit represents a form of homecoming for ‘Galatea’, which was originally owned by the SVR in unrestored condition from the mid-1980s. It was intended as spares for class sister ‘Leander’ but a happier fate awaited it when it was sold on in 1994. Managing director Gus Dunster said:
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‘We’re delighted to welcome ‘Galatea’ to the SVR, and it will be a real privilege to see it in full steam on SVR metals; perhaps we can ponder the strange but wonderful twists of fate that happen in the heritage world!
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‘We are very grateful to West Coast Railways for agreeing to its appearance. It means that we will be in the very happy position of hosting two Jubilees as well as two Manors for our first enthusiast event of the season!
‘Galatea’ joins fellow guests LMS Jubilee 45596 ‘Bahamas’ and GWR 6880 ‘Betton Grange’, as well as the SVR’s home fleet including GWR 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’, GWR 7812 ‘Erlestoke Manor’ and BR Standard 75069.
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The four-day event will offer intensive steam services operating on the 12-mile stretch between Kidderminster and Hampton Loade.
These will be supplemented by local shuttles, goods train and the DMU running between Kidderminster and Highley. At Bridgnorth, GWR 7714 and GWR 1450 will offer short steam-hauled rides in the newly repainted DMU power car, as well as the chance to see the rest of the SVR’s steam loco fleet on display.
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For more information, timetable details and tickets visit svr.co.uk.
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Picture: 45699 running as 45627 Sierra Leone. BOB GREEN
It takes two....at the Spring Diesel Festival
Organisers have confirmed further guests for the Spring Diesel Festival which takes place between 15 and 18 May.
Towards the end of March, it was announced that a pair of HST power cars will once again feature as part of the festival. Courtesy of Rail Adventure, 43480 and 43468 will join the guest line-up for the four-day event.
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Additionally, and because the best things come in twos, a matching pair of Colas 56s are also joining the guest roster. Subject to availability, it is expected that the visiting locomotives will be 56090 and 56094.
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The power cars and the Class 56s join the already-confirmed visitor list, which includes Class 66 and Class 70 locomotives from Freightliner as well as the SVR’s superb home fleet. This includes Classes 17, 20, 33, 37, 40, 42, 50 and 52. Managing director, Gus Dunster said:
‘Our spring diesel event will once again showcase the best of both worlds, and we’re very lucky indeed to have such strong support from our main-line colleagues. All in all, it’s shaping up to be another headline event.’
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The Railway may still be dealing with the significant landslip between Hampton Loade and Bridgnorth, but far from dampening any enthusiasm, the organisers are determined to go all out for this event. With one or two more guest announcements still to come, guests can expect plenty of ‘thrash’ in the festival’s intensive timetable.
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In addition to the motive power on display, tours of the Traction Maintenance Department and the Carriage Shed at Kidderminster are bookable on the day, at the Fifty Fund stand on the station concourse.
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Further information and an event timetable can be found at svr.co.uk. 
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Rail Adventures HST powercars 43468 & 43480 are confirmed for the SVRs Spring Diesel Festival. KEVIN WHITEHURST
Railway 200: ‘Trains through the Ages’
Two first-class visitors will visit for the SVR’s Railway 200 ‘Trains through the Ages’ weekend on 5 and 6 July, and it would be hard to imagine two guests that represent more different eras of rail travel.
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The event will see recently overhauled LNER Peppercorn Class A1 No 60163 ‘Tornado’ steaming along the Valley. ‘Tornado’ will haul the SVR’s unique set of LNER teak carriages, which date back to 1922.
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From the historic A1 Class to the very latest in railway technology, there’ll also be a rare opportunity to get up close to HydroFLEX, the UK’s first hydrogen-ready passenger train.
Developed and extensively tested by Porterbrook at the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre in Warwickshire, HydroFLEX uses a state-of-the-art system to convert hydrogen and oxygen to generate clean electricity, with water being the only emission. Managing director Gus Dunster said:
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‘These two special guests mean we can launch our Railway 200 event with a real splash. We’re delighted to welcome back ‘Tornado’, which last visited us in 2019, and we thank the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust for allowing it to run at our event. It’s going to look splendid with our set of teak carriages.
‘Equally exciting and definitely bang-up-to-date is HydroFLEX, showcasing the cutting edge of railway technology. We’re honoured that Porterbrook are bringing it to our event, so as many people as possible can see for themselves what the future of rail holds.’
Ben Ackroyd, Porterbrook’s chief operating officer, added:
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‘We’re delighted to bring HydroFLEX to the Severn Valley Railway’s Railway 200 celebration. With exciting technology like this being developed, we’re confident that the railway’s most exciting days are ahead of us. We hope that experiencing this innovative train up close will help to inspire the next generation to take the baton and go even further.’
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Other attractions during the Railway 200 weekend at the SVR will be a display of narrow-gauge locomotives, dating from the 1800s, GWR 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’ and GWR 1450 hauling carriages from the 1910s to the 1940s, and a heritage diesel locomotive paired with a set of Mark 1 carriages from the 1950s. Examples of modern railway traction will also be on display, and 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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For more information about this special weekend event, visit svr.co.uk.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Other News
Fast-track, no-queue system for SVR passengers*
After last season’s successful trials with ticket scanners, passengers who have pre-booked their tickets online can now hop straight onto a train when they arrive at the SVR, with no need to queue at the booking office*.
When passengers pre-book online, they receive a digital ticket with a QR code, which TTIs will scan on board the train.
Mike Jenkins, Kidderminster’s booking office manager, was involved in last year’s trials. He explained how the innovation will ensure a much smoother, and faster, passenger experience:
‘At long last, we’ve found a way to avoid all the queuing at the booking offices! I’ve volunteered at Kidderminster for 25 years, and I know this is going to be a very positive change.
'The fact is most people nowadays pre-book online, and that means we can send them a scannable e-ticket. Not only will they save money compared with the on-the-day price, but they’ll also beat the queues as they can simply walk straight onto the train.
‘Old-fashioned Edmondson tickets are still available of course, and passengers can get those from the booking office, if they’d like a heritage souvenir of their trip.
‘And people who want to turn up and pay on the day can still do this, but of course, the queues will now be much shorter. So it’s a winner, all round!’
*NB: You must still check in at the booking office for SVR galas and special events.
Model railway company supports Severn Valley Railway’s landslip fund
A model-railway company has already raised £1,000 for the Railway’s landslip repairs, since it launched a very special set of model figurines last month.
 
Modelu, based in Chipping Sodbury, has created a set of eight figurines that accurately depict individual SVR volunteers, in a variety of railway roles, including footplate crew, signalman and inspector. The company has used its specially developed 3D scanner to capture the likenesses of the volunteers.
 
Modelu’s owner Alan Buttler explained more:
 
‘We want to create figures that are incredibly accurate, down to the last detail. Working with real-life volunteers means that we can get poses that are authentic and realistic. Our bodyscanner has a rig of 105 separate cameras, and can capture a pose in a fraction of a second.
 
‘When we heard about the SVR’s landslip and realised how much it’s going to impact the railway, it gave us an idea. We wanted to give something back to the line, in recognition of the time and support its volunteers have given us to help us develop our business.’
Welcoming the donation, the SVR’s managing director Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster said:
 
‘This is a wonderful show of support from Modelu, and we’re so grateful to the company for doing this. The figurine sets really are astonishingly accurate and it’s great to see our own recognisable volunteers portrayed in action!’
 
Modelu is donating 50% of the sales price for each set of figurines that it sells. Sets are available in a range of scales, including N, O and OO, from modelu3d.co.uk , with prices starting at £24.95.
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Historic ‘Locomotion’ plates to visit SVR
Visitors to the Spring Steam Gala between 18 and 21 April will be able to see number and date plates from a locomotive that holds a unique place in the history of railway travel.
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The original number and date plates from ‘Locomotion No 1’ will be on display on Kidderminster Town station concourse, as well as a nameplate from ‘Evening Star’, the last steam loco built for BR in 1960, and the smokebox plate from world steam speed record-holder ‘Mallard’.
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The ‘Locomotion’ plates are among the oldest tangible links with the original engine, which was built in 1825, although it wouldn’t have carried a number or name until at least the 1830s.
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The plates were believed lost, until their current owner David Gray unearthed them. His grandfather, Peter Gray, had received them as a gift when he was the manager at Darlington Locomotive Works in the 1960s.
The visit to the SVR is the first stop on a tour of UK railway venues prior to the sale of the ‘Locomotion’ plates in October, through Railwayana Auctions. Managing director Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster said:
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‘Having these unique artefacts together on display for the first time ever at Kidderminster will be a wonderful addition to our Spring Steam Gala. They represent the earliest, last and fastest steam locomotives, and this will be a rare opportunity.’
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As well as the display of artefacts, Railwayana Auctions will offer a walk-in valuation service at the event. The loco artefacts tour is being sponsored by TRACKSIDE magazine.
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Neil Booth of Railwayana Auctions UK and David Gray with the 'Locomotion' plates. TRACKSIDE MAGAZINE
Bahamas Locomotive Society adds its support for the SVR
Donations to the SVR Resilience Fund have been very generous since news of the landslip broke, now totalling more than £159,000.
This includes a donation from the Bahamas Locomotive Society who have kindly given a day’s hire fee for their locomotive 45596 ‘Bahamas’, which will be appearing at the forthcoming Spring Steam Gala between 18 and 21 May.
Keith Whitmore, chairman of the BLS, said, ‘We are delighted to be able to offer this small gesture towards overcoming the circumstances our friends at the SVR face.  All heritage railway groups are facing many pressures, and we feel this is one way of contributing towards our shared needs.  We trust that they will soon be able to reinstate their full service.’
‘We’re incredibly grateful to the BLS for their support,’ said the SVR’s managing director, Gus Dunster, ‘This is another example of the heritage railway sector pulling together in a very positive way. Overall, we are touched and heartened by the support from so many organisations and individuals. Thank you so much to every single one who’s donated.’
45596 Bahamas during its visit to the SVR in 2024 departs Kidderminster JOHN TITLOW
SVR highly commended in tourism awards
The SVR was recognised in the recent Visit Worcestershire Awards, being the only Highly Commended nominee in the Large Visitor Attraction category for 2024/25.
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Visitor Engagement Manager Lewis Maddox said:
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‘Having come away from the awards last year empty-handed, I’m thrilled. This really is a fantastic achievement for the SVR and I’m so pleased we were recognised as going above and beyond when put head-to-head with other popular local attractions.’
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The SVR was also shortlisted in the Business Events Venue and Tourism Unsung Hero categories.
Line up of locomotives: 7812 Erlestoke Manor, 75069 and 7802 Bradley Manor. BOB GREEN
The SVR to benefit from CIRO/HRA partnership
The Severn Valley Railway is poised to join the Chartered Institute of Railway Operators (CIRO) as a corporate member, thanks to a partnership deal between CIRO and the Heritage Railway Association, of which the SVR is already a member.
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The SVR will benefit from corporate membership of CIRO at a specially tailored rate, and as a result, SVR personnel, both paid and volunteer, will be able to join CIRO at no cost as individual members.
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The partnership aims to provide new and exciting development opportunities for staff and volunteers at heritage railways, fostering innovation, professional development, and stronger industry collaboration. HRA member-railways will be able to gain access to leading resources and expertise from the wider rail industry through CIRO, alongside the specific heritage rail guidance, support and advice already provided by the HRA.
Access to CIRO training and qualifications will help heritage railways enhance the skills and knowledge within their organisation, boosting the long-term success of the sector.
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The SVR’s managing director Gus Dunster is a CIRO Fellow, and highlighted the importance of this opportunity, for both the Railway and its people:
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‘Throughout my railway career I have experienced at first hand the benefits that come from developing our people to reach their full potential. 
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‘For the heritage railway sector, it is particularly important that we provide the opportunity for our next generation of leaders to be fully equipped to keep these unique businesses operating safely and efficiently. This partnership between CIRO and HRA represents a significant step-forward towards that objective and I support it unequivocally.’
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There’s further information about the CIRO/HRA partnership at hra.uk.com. ​​​
HRA's chief executive Steve Oates announcing the partnership with CIRO. HRA
Behind the scenes at Open House
Last weekend, the annual Open House event saw many visitors getting a glimpse of areas at the Railway that are not usually open to the public. With train services operating between Kidderminster and Hampton Loade as well as footplate rides at Bridgnorth, it was a busy weekend across the Railway.
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Visitors had the chance to look around four signal boxes, a Class 58 diesel loco at Kidderminster, Highley Engine House, as well as the main loco works and machine shop at Bridgnorth.
The signal box tours were guided by members of the signalling department, and volunteers from loco groups were on hand to welcome visitors to Bridgnorth MPD and show them progress on the different projects underway in the works. On Saturday, the paintshop was open, where Ronan O' Brien managed to complete a hand-painted BR 'cycling lion' emblem on 1450 whilst also answering visitors’ questions! At Bewdley C&W, tours of the yard took place every hour on both days.
‘Our Open House events are extremely popular,’ said managing director Gus Dunster, ‘And it’s easy to see why. For these two days only, we offer our visitors a rare peek behind the scenes at the fascinating and vital work that goes on beyond the public gaze.'
Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
What's coming up?
Easter holiday adventures beckon ...
The Severn Valley Railway promises adventures galore for families and friends over the Easter holidays. From 12 to 27 April (excluding 14 and 25) the SVR is offering an unforgettable experience.
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Passengers can hop on board a heritage steam- or diesel-hauled train and discover the beauty of the Severn Valley, testing their observation skills along the way with the complimentary EyeSpy booklet that’s available from booking offices.
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The Engine House Visitor Centre, only a couple of minutes’ walk from Highley station, has interactive games for children, and they can show off their sorting skills in the Travelling Post Office, peek into King George VI's royal carriage and let off steam outside in the large play area.
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TrainTime UK will also be at The Engine House with their giant train set (15-17 and 22-24 April), where younger children can have an unforgettable fun experience, surrounded by real-life locomotives and carriages!
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For further information check out the calendar.
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Get the best prices by purchasing in advance  Freedom of the Line or Short Journey tickets. These are also available on the day.
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Happy Easter!
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Footplate and steam-hauled DMU rides at Bridgnorth
If you haven’t yet taken the opportunity for a footplate ride at Bridgnorth, there are still slots available this weekend, 12 and 13 April, and on the weekend of 26 and 27 April. Footplate rides then continue on weekends throughout May, upto and including 1 June.
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These activities are playing a huge part in keeping Bridgnorth as an attraction to visitors, despite the fact that it’s temporarily cut off from the rest of the line because of the landslip at Mor Brook bridge.
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It’s best to pre-book footplate rides at svr.co.uk but there may be slots available on the day.
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During the Spring Steam Gala, between 18 and 21 April, instead of footplate rides, there’ll be the chance for short journeys out of Bridgnorth station in the recently repainted DMU power car M51941, hauled by a steam loco – the big windows will allow some splendid views! Rides in the DMU vehicle are included in the price of your Gala day-rover ticket, or can be purchased separately on the day.
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Plus steam locos GWR 4930, LMS 13268 and LMS 43106 will be on display in Platform 1 throughout the Gala.
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Back to the 80s at The King & Castle
The Railway Kidderminster pub, the King and Castle, will be going back to the 80s on Saturday 12 April. Dust off those cassette tapes, grab your glow sticks and don your leg warmers, for an electrifying night of nostalgia!
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Groove to the beats spun by DJ Guy Roles, who will be playing all your favourite hits from the time when moonwalking was cool. Whether you’re a fan of Madonna or Michael, the Cure or the Bangles, there will be something for everyone.
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Tickets cost £5 per person and can be purchased from the pub or from the SVR website. All profits will go to the SVR Resilience Fund.
The fun will be starting at 7:30pm until late, so make sure to arrive on time to grab the best spot on the dance floor.
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Slide show from the collection of Tony Bending
The late Tony Bending took many photographs of the extra-curricular activities which working members engaged in during the late 1960s, 70s and 80s. Come and see what they got up to when work was done. Dressing up was just one of their pastimes!
Followed by free homemade chilli and jacket potato!
The event takes place at Bridgnorth Refreshment Room, on Saturday 19 April between 5.30 and 7.30pm. Doors open at 5pm.
Space is limited and so are numbers, so please email chris.thomas@svrlive.com to book your place.
The late, great Tony Bending. IAIN SHORTHOUSE
Model Railway weekend takeover at The Engine House
The annual spring Model Railway Weekend will see around 25 model-railway displays descending on The Engine House Highley, on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 May.
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Model-railway fans are in for a treat at this popular event with exhibitors travelling from far and wide. Layouts on display will include Illie Town, Memory Lane, New Abberley and Quarry End plus many more.
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The displays will have a backdrop of Engine House locos including ‘Gordon’ the blue engine and 7819 ‘Hinton Manor’.
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Entry to The Engine House will be from 10.45am to 4.30pm, with last entry at 4pm. ​
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Model Railway Illie Town: A SMITH
Across the Railway
Permanent Way update
It’s been another busy month for the permanent way gangs, who’ve been working on a variety of jobs to keep the track and infrastructure in good shape.
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Although there are no scheduled services north of Hampton Loade because of the landslip, the work there hasn't stopped; in fact the lack of passenger traffic has given an opportunity to carry out jobs that are difficult to fit in when services are running.
The sleepers on Oldbury Viaduct, next to Daniel’s Mill, needed replacement and three days at the end of March saw this job completed, along with spot replacement of other sleepers in the area.
The volunteers and staff don't just attend to the track, but also carry out maintenance work on the entire formation, including clearing excess vegetation and other tasks on bridges and structures.
The dry weather has allowed access to watercourses, and the clearance of winter flood debris that had built up around bridges and culverts.
A team of volunteers has spent several Sundays clearing vegetation adjacent to the landslip at Mor Brook, in preparation for work on the site to commence.
Earlier this week, 100 brand-new hardwood sleepers at a bargain price were delivered, along with eight lengths of new 60ft flat bottom rail at a third of their normal cost. It’s all ready for more replacement work over the coming months.
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Stations update
One of the sure signs of spring on the Railway is the removal of the temporary walling on Kidderminster station concourse, and it’s now down for the summer.
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Meanwhile the Friends of Kidderminster Station are undertaking a refurbishment of the 'Tardis' at the concourse end of the platforms. This is the small ticket inspectors’ booth, and it needs several years of paint removing. After this, it will be repainted in GWR light and dark stone.
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The Friends have also built a fire-hose cabinet for the station from scratch, complete with fire hose and buckets.
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Meanwhile, further up the line at Eardington, the station volunteers have completed most of the corrugated iron cladding on their new goods lock-up building.
The Arley station staff social evening took place on Saturday 22 March. The team forego the usual Christmas dinner, as Arley is busy with Santa services throughout the Christmas period. However, 40 staff attended the dinner at Wharton Park Golf Club and it was a great success. The venue is already booked for next year.
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Assistant station master Catherine Martin said, 'It’s so lovely to get everyone together to socialise and enjoy a great evening out, so it’s worth all the hard work to organise such an event. Thank you to all our station staff (we have 70 of us on the books) for all the hard work they put in throughout the year – a great team makes a great station and a great place to work!’
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Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Severn Valley explained – Edmondson ticket printing
Nowadays, most visitors to the SVR book in advance and receive an emailed, scannable ticket. However, tradition is alive and well, and all visitors can obtain a cardboard Edmondson ticket from the booking office, as a souvenir of their visit.
These are produced using a system that’s well over 100 years old! Tucked away in a small print shop in the Carriage and Wagon works, is the Edmondson ticket printing team. Between them, Doug Collins, Ralph Lock and Andy Smith produce more than 80,000 Edmondson tickets each year.
Thomas Edmondson was a booking clerk on the Newcastle & Carlisle Railway in the 1830s. He developed his ticketing system after seeing how inadequate the systems of fare collection and checking were at the time. Travel documents on the NCR were either handwritten dockets with no numbering, or metal tokens that passengers had to hand back at the destination station.
Edmondson developed a system of writing the names of the issuing and collecting stations along with a sequential number on a docket. At the same time, he tightened up the accounting of ticket sales revenue.
After a spell working on the Liverpool & Manchester Railway, he started his own business in 1841, supplying pre-printed tickets to railways, or licensing the system, which he had patented, along with dating presses that were used by ticket office staff to date stamp the pre-printed tickets, making them valid for travel.
Edmondson revolutionised railway ticketing, with virtually all UK railways adopting his 2 1/4 inches by 13/16 inches, (57.15mm x 30.16mm) pasteboard tickets. These remained in use on British Rail until the 1980s.
Doug Collins started working in the SVR’s print shop around 2013. He explained, 'Geoff Leigh and I started printing the tickets more than 10 years ago. Sadly, Geoff died just before Christmas last year, but I've now been joined by Ralph and Andy who, every Friday, help me to print the orders that the stations send us.
‘These ticket printing machines are well over 100 years old. They would have been built sometime in the 19th century. They are made by Waterlow and Sons, who were rivals to the original Edmondson Company, especially after the patent for Edmondson tickets expired.
‘Our machines came from the former BR ticket printing centre at Crewe. We want to keep them going for as long as possible. Sadly, spare parts are no longer available, but with the engineering skills and facilities available at the Railway, we've managed to repair them, even making some new parts when needed.
‘Edmondson tickets are still popular with enthusiasts, station staff and passengers who want a heritage souvenir of their day with us. We print them for all the stations, in a different colour for each one. There are 40 or more different types, including all the variations for class, adult, child, and even dog tickets!
‘We also produce specific ones for events, such as when ‘Hagley Hall’ was steamed after its overhaul, or anniversary trains and so on. We can commission a specially made block with an illustration to mark the event.
‘One advantage of our process is that we can easily produce smaller numbers, such as 50 or so for a wedding party. These are nice little mementoes that people can keep as a souvenir from their special day with us.'
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Laying new cables at Hampton Loade
Last month, the S&T team undertook the task of replacing the trackside cable to the south distant signal at Hampton Loade.
The existing cable was a ten-pair telecoms type which has been in the ground since the 1990s.
This single cable carried 110V ac electric power along with signalling and telephone circuits. There has been a long-standing plan to replace this with separate cables and S&T policy is now to use separate cables for power, signalling and telecoms.
This cable had lots of joints and historic damage. Single cables are normally only used between distant signals which carry only signalling and telephone circuits.
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A trenching machine was hired to enable the cables to be buried beside the track to protect them from risk of damage. The trenching machine is basically a chain-style excavator, which scoops up the earth and spits it out of the side as it moves along, creating a six-inch-wide trench. ​
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The distance from the Hampton Loade signal box to Location cabinet (Loc) 20 at the distant signal is 880m (962 yards). One of the Railway’s road-rail vehicles (RRVs) was used to steady the machine and haul the cables on its trailer.
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Two reels of cable were mounted on spools in the trailer and reeled out as the machine moved down the track. The cables were fed into the new trench, and it was backfilled as the work progressed. ​
Three separate cables were installed, a two-core power cable for the 110V ac supply; a 12-core cable for the signalling circuits and a ten-pair telecoms cable for the telephone system.
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The opportunity to make full use of the trenching machine hire and the availability of the RRV, with the cable drum already on board, meant that the team also took the opportunity to install two new ten-pair cables between Little Rock Crossing to Loc 16 at Sterns, and Hampton Loade north distant signal (Loc 17) to the Waterworks Cutting (see our March edition for the cable fault-finding process.) Whilst the work in this location was carried out the team managed to use the RRV to straighten up both Hampton Loade north and south distant signals which both had noticeable ‘leans’.
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Overall, it was a physically hard but very productive week’s work by both paid and volunteer staff.
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
Rolling stock
We keep calm and carry on, at Bridgnorth MPD!
Despite the unusual circumstances on the northernmost section at Bridgnorth being cut off from the rest of the line, it’s largely business as usual within the walls of the Motive Power Depot and surrounding works areas, as volunteer shedmaster Martin White reports:
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Having ‘flown the flag’ for SVR steam passenger working by itself so far this season, 75069 has finally been joined at Bewdley by 7812 ‘Erlestoke Manor’ and 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’. 7812 was moved to Kidderminster by road on 27 March, following a brief visit to the Gwilli Railway, and 7802 had the shorter road journey from Bridgnorth and, with its tender, was delivered on 1 and 2 April.
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A late change of plans, brought about by time constraints, means that 7802 has not visited the paint shop at Bridgnorth for smartening up, as originally proposed. This accounts for the difference between the paintwork on the loco and tender. 7802 is undertaking some loaded test runs during week commencing 7 April.
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The paint shop is currently occupied by 1450, which is receiving its finished paintwork, applied by the ESMP paid staff and volunteer gang. Once completed, it is likely that 1450 will find its way to Bewdley MPD, via another heritage railway, where it will be making a brief visit.
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In the meantime, pannier tank 7714 has been operating the weekend footplate rides within station limits at Bridgnorth. These have proven to be quite popular, and some visitors have even booked a repeat visit so they can sample different locomotives. ​​
Within the main works, it’s very much a case of ongoing activity on the locos inside. The ashpan repairs to 13268 and the replacement platework on the tender of ‘Taw Valley’ are continuing. The volunteer groups working on the two 2-6-2 tank locos, 4150 and 82045, continue their steady progress. If you managed to visit Bridgnorth during the recent Open House weekend, you’ll have been able to see the activity for yourself!
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Meanwhile, out in the MPD yard, the boiler of ‘Taw Valley’ has largely had its interior stripped with all the small and large tubes removed. Until recently it was barely noticeable from the exterior that anything was happening to it. However, the latest activity to remove the smoke deflectors and main steam pipes have left the smokebox looking rather bare.
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There’s a steady volume of contract/commercial work taking place too. Casting, using our SVR patterns, provides a regular income stream, and if time and capacity permit, these castings can be machined. For example, one of the ESMP paid staff is currently working his way through 65 separate components to produce a GWR sight feed lubricator. The boiler shop similarly continues to contribute to SVR revenues with Isle of Man railway work and the boiler from ‘Dunrobin’, which is getting relatively close towards completion and testing after its extensive and prolonged overhaul.
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
DMU Class 108 gets stunning new paint job
Bridgnorth Paint Shop has recently completed a total repaint of Class 108 Driving Motor Brake Second (DMBS) M51941 into BR deep bronze-green, complete with the yellow front end stripes known as speed whiskers.
Owned by The DMU Group (West Midlands), the vehicle is one of their five-car Class 108 fleet, which consists of four driving motors and one centre car, known as a Trailer Brake Second.
Paid staff and volunteers spent 320 hours repainting the vehicle over a six-week period. The SVR’s full-time painter Ronan O’Brien explained more:
‘One side had heavy crazing and needed extra attention, and the whole body needed extensive sanding and filling before painting. The cab ends are steel, but the main body is aluminium, so it needs a special etch primer. This is designed to physically bond itself to the substrate to which it is applied - aluminium in this case - which has a smoother surface than steel.
‘The etch primer contains a small amount of acid in the paint which microscopically etches the surface of the substrate, giving better adhesion and forming a physical and chemical bond between the two. Further layers of paint can then be applied in the normal way.’
In total, the vehicle received two primer coats, two undercoats, two topcoats and finally, two coats of varnish. In addition to the paintwork, a total overhaul of all the door locks was carried out, in readiness for its return to traffic at the Spring Steam Gala, where it will be operating with 7714 and 1450 over the four days, giving rides at Bridgnorth Station.
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
People
In memoria
Mary Jordan and Roger Jordan
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The SVR has lost two of the founder members of the Junior Club following the death of Mary Jordan on 5 April and her husband Roger Jordan in January.
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They started volunteering in carriage restoration, with Mary also spending time helping in the shop at Kidderminster, but it is their work with the Junior Club for which they will be most fondly remembered.
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For well over 25 years, they welcomed youngsters who had a general interest in railways into the club and had then been responsible for shaping the careers of so many of those youngsters into the adult volunteers who are working on the SVR today. With their enthusiasm, patience, encouragement, dedication and shared love of the SVR, they were able to mould those youngsters and to pass on to them the qualities required and the basic railway knowledge that they needed to ultimately make them successful volunteers. Les Adey, SVR Junior Club
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Space precludes fuller obituaries appearing in Express Points. These appear in internal NBIs and later in SVR News.
Volunteers needed for historic event
The Railway 200 team is seeking volunteers to help the SVR mark two centuries of railway history.
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‘Inspiration’, the Railway 200 exhibition train, will arrive on the SVR on 26 June, the first destination on its 12-month journey around the UK. Based at Kidderminster Station, the attraction is expecting to welcome nearly 4,000 people on June 27, 28, 29 and July 5, 6, including as many as 750 school children.
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The SVR will need eight volunteers each day to deliver this historic project, to allow two per carriage. 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. You can commit to as few or as many days as you want and all that’s needed is that you’re aged 18+, you have enthusiasm, and a willingness to commit to contributing your time and skills, and that you can be on site from 9.30am to 5.30pm. ​
There’s no requirement for a DBS check, as visiting minors will be accompanied by a responsible adult.
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‘The chance to be a volunteer on ‘Inspiration’ is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,’ said visitor engagement manager Lewis Maddox. ‘Could it you? If you’re interested in supporting the visit of ‘Inspiration’ visit to the SVR, please get in touch at lewis.maddox@svrlive.com This opportunity is open to everyone, and you don’t need to be a current SVR volunteer/working member to get involved.’
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​Click on the gallery for larger images and descriptions.
60th anniversary photo project
A member of the SVR’s photographers’ group is appealing for help and ideas to put together a record of volunteers and the work they carry out across the line. Alan Gwilt sees this as a way of recording a ‘snapshot’ of where the Railway is in its 60th year of preservation.
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‘Over the coming months, I’d like to arrange photo sessions with groups of volunteers in different departments and locations,’ explained Alan. ‘This will be a way of capturing not only visual images, but also something of the spirit of the SVR, and bringing it all together in a valuable archive that will form part of the Railway’s legacy.
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‘I’ve already got around half a dozen fellow-photographers who want to participate, but more would be very welcome.
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‘Also, I’d like to invite groups around the Railway to put themselves forward as subjects for the photo sessions. This is your chance to have the valuable, skilled work that you do captured on camera, and preserved for the future.’
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Volunteer photographers and groups/departments that would like to take part can contact Alan on alan.gwilt@gmail.com
From the archives - early preservationists and locomotives in 1969. ARTHUR WILLIAMS
v1 10th April
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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.