A LOCOMOTIVE was derailed at the Severn Valley Railway station in Kidderminster, prompting an investigation to be launched into the cause.

The incident took place at the Kidderminster station while carriages were being swapped at on Tuesday afternoon (May 16).

A spokesman for Severn Valley said no passengers were involved in the incident and an investigation into why the derailment took place is underway.

The incident affected the 4.15pm service to Bridgnorth - which was delayed by around 20 minutes. A diesel engine was brought in to haul the service.

The steam locomotive involved was no. 2857.

Severn Valley Railway took to Facebook and Twitter to alert people to the incident.

A statement on their Facebook page on Tuesday afternoon said: "Due to an incident at Kidderminster, the 4.15pm service to Bridgnorth is delayed by approximately 20 minutes and will now be diesel hauled.

"The incident involves locomotive no. 2857, travelling light engine, while swapping sets at Kidderminster station.

"The rear wheel set on the tender has derailed at a slow speed, with no passengers involved.

"An investigation is underway.

"We apologise for the delay and any inconvenience caused."

People took the SVR Facebook page to send messages of support after the incident.

Ben Jenden said: "These things happen, hope 2857 isn't majorly damaged."

Graham Pearce said: "Some things happen at least no one was injured and 2857 is back on the rails to recovery."

Stephen Ron Chandler added: "Really not good. 2857's tender has only just returned from Tyseley after tyre turning.

"Hope there's no major damage."