BOSSES at Severn Valley Railway have been left “saddened” after vandals daubed graffiti on historic train carriages at the Kidderminster depot.

Workers at the attraction returned from the Christmas break to find the attack had taken place at some point during the previous two days.

As a result, some of the trains will be shorter than expected and an investigation into the incident is now underway.

A spokesman said: “Not something we wanted to wake up to - in the last 48 hours, vandals have attacked some of our historic carriages at Kidderminster with graffiti.

“An investigation is underway. In light of this, some of our trains will be shorter than planned as the affected carriages will be removed from service. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

“We are extremely saddened by this turn of events, especially in the season of goodwill.

“But, in true Severn Valley Railway spirit, we will continue with smiles on our faces and ensure the much-loved and painstakingly-restored vehicles are returned to service as quickly as possible for our passengers to enjoy.”

Any witnesses are urged to call West Mercia Police on 101.

The vehicles are owned by the SVR Chariatable Trust and anyone who is able to donate to help restore them as soon as possible can do so by visiting: http://svrtrust.org.uk/individual-support/donate-online-2.html