The brand-new Severn Valley Railway (SVR) Winter Steam Gala promises to be every photographer’s dream next year.

The event, which is being held for the first time in January 2024, is set to provide the ideal conditions for professional and amateur snappers alike with the opportunity to get up close with locomotives in the frosty winter weather.

SVR volunteer John Titlow said: “The days might be short but winter is the best time to be out riding and photographing steam trains.

“Nothing is better than a cold, still winter day with the locomotive working hard and the exhaust laying on top of the train as it winds its way along the line.

“Frosty landscapes viewed from the inside of a steam-heated carriage is something special particularly with a hot drink in hand. Snow and sun can only make it better.”

The railway is planning to have at least five steam trains in operation and a busy timetable that include visiting locomotive 2253 ‘Omaha’, which has stayed at the SVR after its gala appearance in September.

The gala is also the last chance to see 21C127 ‘Taw Valley’ in wartime black and to bid a temporary farewell to 43106 ‘The Flying Pig’ as it reaches the end of its current boiler ticket.

The recently overhauled 2968 makes its debut and the 7812 ‘Erlestoke Manor’ is back at its home base as well.

Services are expected to start at 8am each day until 7pm on Saturday, January 6 and Sunday, January 7, including an evening special on the Saturday 43106.

Tickets are on sale at www.svr.co.uk