The Severn Valley Railway’s (SVR) new Summer Gala event will take place on Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 July, showcasing a mix of steam and heritage diesel traction - with up to four visiting locomotives expected to join the line-up. The gala will see trains operating a busy timetable along the full line between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth.

Commenting on the event, Lewis Maddox, visitor engagement manager at SVR, said: “This event is all about celebrating the variety of our fleet and offering something a little different for enthusiasts and families alike, whether that’s classic steam, heritage diesel or even miniature live-steam action at Kidderminster.”

The weekend rail-fest will feature both guest and home-fleet locomotives operating a busy timetable between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth. If you love steam, diesel and something a little bit different, this is the place to be! Ride behind every locomotive, visit The Engine House at Highley to break up your day, or sample the finest real-ales in pubs along the line.

In addition to the ‘big trains’, Kidderminster Station will host ‘little trains’ with a live-steam Gauge 1 model railway, running throughout the weekend.

The first guest locomotive has been announced as Kerr Stuart ‘Witch’ class locomotive No 4388 (pictured, credit Kieran Hardy). Built in 1926 by Kerr, Stuart & Company, this distinctive locomotive features an unusual design with outside cylinders, no front footplate and a notably small saddle tank. 

To find out more and book tickets, visit the website at svr.co.uk