ROUNDING off a busy 2017, Severn Valley Railway is offering passengers the chance to say goodbye to two of its resident steam locomotives at this year's Festive Season Services.

Running between Boxing Day and January 2, the services offer passengers the opportunity to shake-off the frenzy of Christmas wrapping, present-buying, cooking and tiding - with a train journey through the Severn Valley.

The services mark a real change in pace from the last few weeks at the Railway, which has seen more than 30,000 visitors flock to enjoy its range of Santa services, carol trains and Christmas dining services.

This year, the services will not only round-off the 2017 running season, but will be a way of saying goodbye to two of the Railway's resident locomotives.

No. 7812 Erlestoke Manor will be retiring from service after 10 years to undergo an overhaul. It returned to steam in 2008 to haul the Railway's re-opening special following the 2007 storms. Since then, it has clocked 100,000 miles in preservation and has carried the Olympic Torch and HRH Princess Anne.

No. 34053 Sir Keith Park joined the Railway's fleet in 2012 following overhaul and steamed for the first time in preservation on the SVR's tracks. 'Skip', as it's affectionately known, has seen some memorable moments including the Steam and Morgan car challenge in October 2012 and the inauguration ceremony of the loco in August 2013. 'Skip' will be moving to Swanage Railway.

Visitors can see Erlestoke Manor in steam on December 26, and December 31, with Sir Keith Park hauling services on January 1, and January 2 - subject to availability.

Clare Gibbard, marketing and communications manager, said: "After the excitement, action and preparation involved in Christmas, our Festive Season Services are the ideal way to de-stress, unwind and relax in one of our comfy carriages while being taken on a relaxing journey through the beautiful countryside.

"This year's services are special for us, as we will be saying goodbye for now to two very much loved locomotives, Erlestoke Manor and Sir Keith Park, so we hope to give them a lovely send off."

From January 2, the Railway will close for essential maintenance, re-opening again for February half term.

To book tickets, call 01562 757900 or visit svr.co.uk.