Steam railway shortlisted for three heritage awards

A heritage steam railway has been shortlisted for three awards in what volunteers have described as a "tremendous honour".

The Severn Valley Railway (SVR), which operates between Bridgnorth in Shropshire and Kidderminster in Worcestershire, is a finalist in categories for restoration, innovation and staff, with the winners to be announced next March.

SVR's managing director Jonathan Dunster said the Heritage Railway Association annual awards were "the biggest and most respected accolades" in the sector.

He said the team was thrilled at the news, adding it "genuinely feels like an early Christmas present for everyone involved".

In September, the railway unveiled a heritage buffet car that had been restored with wheelchair users in mind.

The restoration of Great Western Railway coach No 9581, which was transformed into an accessible buffet and saloon car, has put SVR in the running for the Rolling Stock award.

When the carriage had its first outing in the railway's Autumn Steam Gala, SVR spokeswoman Lesley Carr said the aim was to retain its authentic 1920s appearance and to meet the modern expectations of the 21st Century.

The railway is also a finalist in the Innovation of the Year award for its Boogie Lights Express train, a sound and light show with "pulse-pounding music", which returns for a second time in February and March next year.

SVR project leader Jack Baldwin is shortlisted for the Rising Star award following his work on the "HydroShunter" project – which is a conversion of a former 08 diesel shunter into a hydrogen-powered vehicle.

Mr Dunster said: "To be recognised across such varied categories shows how highly the SVR is regarded within the heritage railway sector.

"We couldn't be prouder of the dedicated teams and individuals who've earned their places as finalists."

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