The Severn Valley Railway is celebrating after being shortlisted in three categories of the Heritage Railway Association Annual Awards 2026, the biggest and most respected accolades in the heritage rail sector.

The SVR has been named as a finalist for:

- The Rolling Stock award for its unique restoration of Great Western Railway coach No 9581into an accessible buffet and saloon car

- Innovation of the Year award for the Boogie Lights Express train, which will return for the second time in February and March 2026

- 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

The HRA annual awards are widely regarded as the benchmark of excellence across the heritage rail industry. This year has seen a panel of expert judges whittle down a record-breaking 110 entries to determine the finalists.

The winners of the HRA annual awards 2026 will be announced at a high-profile ceremony in Llandudno in March 2026.