Things have taken on an early festive flavour at the Severn Valley Railway’s paint shop in Bridgnorth, where production is underway on specially commissioned headboards for two brand-new Christmas experiences at the popular heritage attraction.

Volunteer Bernard Green put the final touches to the headboard which will take pride of place on front of the steam locomotive hauling the SVR’s new Christmas experience, the Elf Express. This service departs from Bridgnorth, and on board passengers will meet a cast of mischievous and merry elves with a mission to make sure everyone gets the perfect start to Christmas.

Another headboard has been produced for the Santa Steam Special service, which departs from Kidderminster, taking passengers to Arley for the Great Christmas Train Rescue. This unique festive show features Santa himself, and includes awe-inspiring puppetry courtesy of War Horse designer Matthew Forbes.

Both the Elf Express and Santa Steam Special services will operate on selected dates from 29 November up to and including Christmas Eve, and there are relaxed Santa Steam Specials on 7, 14 and 21 December. There’s more information and booking details at svr.co.uk