Severn Valley Railway to hold two-day gala featuring rare ‘Witch’ locomotive - see dates and ticket prices
The two-day rail celebration will showcase a lively mix of steam and heritage diesel traction.
The Severn Valley Railway has launched a brand new summer gala this year.
The weekend rail-fest will feature both guest and home-fleet locomotives operating a busy timetable between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth.
The two-day rail celebration will showcase a lively mix of steam and heritage diesel traction, with up to four visiting locomotives expected to join the line-up.
Kerr Stuart ‘Witch’ class locomotive No 4388 is confirmed as the first guest engine, appearing courtesy of Jack Dibnah and the Foxfield Railway.
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.
Originally constructed for the British Gas Light Company’s gas works at Etruria in Stoke-on-Trent, it was used to shunt coal wagons from the mainline at Etruria yard, replacing work previously carried out by horses.
The expected home fleet includes GWR 813, GWR 1450, GWR 7714, Class 14 D9551, Class 17 D8568 and Class 20 20048, alongside the visiting locomotives, more of which are still to be announced.
Extra attractions across the railway will add to the festival atmosphere.
Visitors can explore The Engine House at Highley, enjoy refreshments including real ales in station pubs, and experience ‘little trains’ at Kidderminster Station, where a live-steam Gauge 1 model railway will be running throughout the event.
Lewis Maddox, visitor engagement manager at the Severn Valley Railway, said: “We’re thrilled to be launching our brand-new summer gala and to welcome such a characterful and unusual locomotive as No 4388 as our first guest.
“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 event will take place on Saturday and Sunday, July 18 and 19.
Listed below are the ticket prices.
- Adult: £38.00
- Child (4-17): £25.00
- Small family: £63.00
- Large family: £101.00
- SVR member: £25.00
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