Steam trains are set to return to the tracks this week after a period of suspension due to dry weather.
Severn Valley Railway (SVR) will resume steam locomotive services from Wednesday, September 2, following recent significant rainfall across Worcestershire and Shropshire.
The decision comes in time for the railway’s Autumn Steam Gala, which will run from September 17 to 20.
Gus Dunster, chief executive officer of SVR, said: “I want to give a huge thank you to all the diesel groups and their volunteers who have picked up every one of our service trains during this challenging period.
“They have done an absolutely amazing job, keeping our railway moving and our visitors travelling while we waited for conditions to improve. Their support has been hugely appreciated, and it’s a great example of the teamwork and commitment that makes the SVR special.
“We’re now delighted to be able to start bringing our steam locomotives back into operation, and especially pleased that this means the Autumn Steam Gala can go ahead as planned.”
During August, SVR’s heritage diesel fleet took over all regular services, supported by their volunteer owning groups.
The return of steam will be phased, with conditions monitored closely.
Extra precautions will be in place during the gala to reduce the risk of lineside fires, including water-spraying trains and fire marshals stationed at vulnerable points along the route.
The four-day event promises an intensive timetable featuring four visiting locomotives alongside SVR’s resident fleet.
Services will run late into the evening on Friday and Saturday, offering visitors the chance to experience steam travel after dark.
Further details, including the full gala timetable and information on visiting locomotives, are available on the SVR website at svr.co.uk.