A £3 MILLION share scheme launched by Severn Valley Railway (SVR)has passed the £750,000 mark in just six weeks.

The heritage line, which runs through Kidderminster and Bewdley, launched its share sell-off last month (October) to give railway fans a chance to own part of it. Cash raised will fund investment in the Midlands heritage line.

Among future projects is the creation of a heritage engineering and building training academy and development of an apprenticeship scheme.

The SVR currently takes on two apprentices every year but the new initiative would boost that figure to around 15. Young people will be given the opportunity to learn traditional engineering skills.

Funding will also go towards SteamWorks - a plan to restore Bridgnorth station to its Victorian glory - restoration of the iconic GWR locomotive Hagley Hall and ongoing maintenance and refurbishment of the railway’s infrastructure.

Nick Paul, SVR chairman, said: “I am delighted by the rapid and wide response to the 2012 share offer from both new and existing shareholders.

“It is reassuring that our plans for the railway are being endorsed and supported financially.”

“Parents and grandparents appear to be buying shares as Christmas presents for family members this year,” added Mr Paul.