Fund-raising drive praised (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Fund-raising drive praised

10:04am Tuesday 2nd October 2007

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WYRE Forest residents have been praised for their support of Severn Valley Railway (SVR) by a visiting shadow minister.

Stephen Hammond, shadow transport minister, said he was impressed by the involvement of local people in contributing to the £435,000 raised to support the railway after the damage caused by the summer floods.

Mr Hammond, who is MP for Wimbledon, travelled from Bewdley to Kidderminster. He was also shown photos of the damage and told of the problems faced by the railway.

He said: "It is hugely to the credit of everyone involved that in eight months the full service is expected to be re-opened. The damage has been very severe."

Mr Hammond applauded the staff for their professionalism but also noted the ability and enthusiasm of the large number of volunteers.

He said he would write in support of applications made for funding although he recognised the limits of his influence.

It was discussed two of the 45 "instances" of flood damage have had repair estimates of £500,000 each.

Mr Hammond said SVR and West Midland Safari Park are both vital for the local tourist industry, adding that heritage railways have national importance.

He said: "Railways like SVR are a working reminder of history and are of great benefit to children as well as adults."

John Leach, marketing manager for SVR, echoed the MP's sentiments concerning the support of local people. He pointed out it is not always necessary to make donations.

He said: "People can also help in other ways. They could go by SVR to Bewdley to do some shopping or have a pint at the King and Castle pub in Kidderminster."

SVR patron, the Duke of Gloucester, was due to visit both Bewdley and Kidderminster stations, yesterday.

Railway bosses were planning to show the Duke photos of the damaged line sections.

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