The Duke officially opens the new footbridge at Highley Station on the Severn Valley Railway

The Queen’s cousin has heaped praise on one of Shropshire’s newest tourist attractions.

The Duke of Gloucester’s visit to the Severn Valley Railway yesterday proved a massive success as he praised its new visitor centre in Highley, near Bridgnorth.

The Engine Room Visitors Centre has attracted thousands of train enthusiasts and school groups since it opened its doors at Easter.

Visitors are able to get up close to full-size steam locomotives.

During yesterday’s visit, which also saw him stop off at Oldbury Wells School in Bridgnorth, the Duke first opened the new Highley station footbridge, followed by The Engine House, and praised the efforts of the railway group.

“The building marks a change of gear for the society,” he said.

“Having this building you are able to exhibit engines in a different way. It is an opportunity to show these wonderful creations as if in an art gallery.”

Michael York, chairman of the Severn Valley Railway, said: “The Engine House was the envy of the railway heritage world.”

On the official opening, David Wilcock, from Severn Valley Railway, said: “The day went fantastically well.

“The duke praised the railway and the hard work which got it up and running and said it was a real pleasure for visitors. After five or six years it was finally opened last Easter so we have been waiting all this time to get it officially open.”

He added: “Schools really enjoy it and that’s why we think of it as a visitors and education centre. Schools are a big part of what we do and a lot of the displays are done with children in mind.

“A big hit with them is the post office sorting room.”

By Jason Lavan