Severn Valley Railway Fully Reopens With Flying Scotsman Leading

The Severn Valley Railway (SVR) will fully reopen its 16-mile heritage line between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth on July 25 after a serious embankment collapse at Mor Brook bridge in January. The Flying Scotsman, one of the world's most famous steam locomotives, will lead the first service, running multiple return trips through the repaired section during the reopening weekend and the SVR’s Swingin’ Sixties event, which celebrates the 60th anniversary of the line in preservation. The SVR has made significant progress repairing the embankment, excavating over 2,500 tonnes of material and installing a temporary culvert to facilitate machinery access. SVR Managing Director Jonathan 'Gus' Dunster expressed excitement over hosting the iconic locomotive and acknowledged support from the National Railway Museum, Northern Steam Operations Limited, and DB Cargo. Craig Bentley, director of the National Railway Museum, highlighted the importance of the visit as part of the railway's recovery and the 200th anniversary of the railways. Tickets for the Flying Scotsman’s appearances must be pre-booked due to expected high demand.