A RARE chance to experience the inner workings at the heart of Severn Valley Railway is on offer to visitors during a special Peep Behind the Scenes event.

The SVR will be throwing open the doors to its engine sheds and carriage works on Saturday, July 18, allowing visitors a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes work undertaken by its dedicated staff and skilled volunteers to preserve the heritage Railway and keep it running on a daily basis.

Organised for the SVR by the 4150 Locomotive Group, the event allows people access to areas normally closed-off to the public, while raising funds for one of the largest current restoration projects at the Railway – GWR Large Prairie Tank Engine No. 4150.

Visitors will get the chance to see first-hand the progress of the ambitious project, tucked away in the farthest corner of Bewdley Yard, which will be open to view throughout the day.

The ex-Stourbridge and Severn Tunnel Junction engine was withdrawn from service in 1965, having only worked for 18 years, and is the only Severn Valley locomotive yet to be steamed in preservation – a determined effort is underway to achieve this within the next two years to three years.

At Bewdley, a shuttle service will operate on short sections of the Stourport and Tenbury branch lines from 11am to 4pm, while the unsung heroes of the line, the SVR Permanent Way volunteers will offer a hands-on demonstration of the vital track and line-side maintenance work undertaken to keep the line running throughout the year, including the chance for the public to get to grips, under supervision, with some of the hand tools and power equipment needed to complete the task.

A chance to see inside the cab of a diesel engine and a GWR First Class Sleeper are on the schedule at Kidderminster, and, after a trip to the Kidderminster Railway Museum, visitors can experience the inner workings of a signal box.

Clare Gibbard, marketing and communications manager, said: “A hugely popular event among railway enthusiasts and general visitors alike, Peep Behind the Scenes enables the public to gain a greater understanding of the hard work that our dedicated team of staff and volunteers undertake on a daily basis to protect, preserve and keep the Railway running.

“It also offers people a chance to keep up-to-date with some of the key restoration projects being undertaken behind the scenes and to witness the skilled engineers and craftsmen at work.”

Normal rail fares will apply on the day, and Peep Behind the Scenes wristbands cost £5 for adults, and can be purchased on the day from Kidderminster, Bewdley and Bridgnorth stations.

Visitors can also download a guide to the event in order to plan their visit in advance at www.svr.co.uk.