ABOUT 6,000 people visited the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) last weekend as it hosted an annual steam gala.

The weekend featured an impressive line-up of four visiting steam engines which carried out services alongside the railway’s own collection.

Visitors could also experience the railway in a different light during the Dusk till Dawn schedule – a programme of steam train services running throughout the night.

This year’s gala was extended to include an additional Preview Day, which allowed visitors to drive and fire a steam train during footplate experience sessions.

Clare Gibbard, SVR’s marketing and communications manager, said: “The Autumn Steam Gala is always one of our most popular events.

“This year’s additional preview day, plus the exciting night-time steam train services and the impressive line-up of visiting engines made it extra special.”