On a damp Thursday Morning, a select group of members from Local History 2 and The Science Group, set off to Kidderminster to experience the Severn Valley Steam Railway. The first stop, at 10:50, was the café at Kidderminster's recreated 1890's station. Bacon sandwiches, which turned out to be huge, and mugs of hot drinks were ordered.
Soon, we were ushered to join the train to Bridgnorth, which was hooked up to Diesel No 9551. Our first impression was how deep and comfortable the seats were; easy to nod off with the movement of the train!
Although we stopped at several points on the way, everyone stayed on until we hove into Bridgnorth, some 80 minutes later. Again, first stop was the Station Café, somewhat disappointing, as no hot food was available that day. Off to explore Bridgnorth, which is split into High Town and Low Town. The trick here is to visit in a way that doesn't exhaust you. Start by walking down a steep hill into Low Town; when finished there, jump onto the Funicular and whiz up to High Town to see the famous Market Hall. It is then a short downhill walk back to the station.
Now for the highlight of the day, the Steam Train 4930, 'Hagley Hall',
On the return journey, some members alighted at Highley, to view the Visitor Centre, where you can see some historic trains and enjoy a hot lunch!
46443 is one of a class of 128 Class 2 2-6-0 tender locos built by the LMS and BR between 1947 and 1953 at Crewe. In 1984 ownership was vested in a fund organised by S.V.R. members, after which 46443 became known as ‘The People’s Engine’. It last worked in 2011, and moved to the Engine House for display.
The 'Lady Armaghdale' is the oldest engine at the Severn Valley Railway. The stunning little locomotive was built by Hunslet of Leeds for the Manchester Ship Canal where it worked for 65 years. In 1963, the locomotive moved to ICI in Manchester, where it took on its name prior to moving into preservation at the Severn Valley Railway in 1969.
Mail had been moved by Britain’s railways since 1830, some using dedicated coaches which later became known as Travelling Post Offices, or simply as TPOs. Some were attached to normal passenger trains, but others were trains solely for the carriage of mail.
Further down the line was Bewdley, a very attractive Georgian riverside town. By this time the sun was out, nobody was lost and we all returned to Kidderminster at 17:25.
Finally, a short walk to the modern station to catch the 17:40 home train, noting the firm seats!