Severn Valley steps back to the Forties

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By Paul Appleton

MORE than 7000 visitors attended the Severn Valley Railway’s flagship 1940s event held over June 24-25 and July 1-2, many dressed in period attire and waving Union flags as they entered into the spirit of the event.

Out of ticket GWR Collett 0-6-0PT No. 5764, fitted with GWR-style spark arrestor for display in a mock military setting during the Step Back to the 40s weekend on July 1. Such spark arrestors were fitted to pannier tanks running on the nearby Cleobury Mortimer & Ditton Priors Light Railway, which served a military depot at Ditton Priors. PAUL APPLETON.

People lined the platforms to catch a glimpse of the much-anticipated battle re-enactment at Highley, soaking up the action as paratroopers dropped behind enemy lines undertook their mission to capture an enemy ammunition train, while at Arley station, crowds of onlookers cheered on a ‘happy couple’ as they exchanged vows during a 1940s wedding. Arley also hosted a display of classic road vehicles.

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A fire-fighting re-enactment and display was staged at Kidderminster, courtesy of the NFA & AFS Vehicles Group.

The mock-up provisions store on the station concourse at Kidderminster on July 1. PAUL APPLETON.

Vintage market

The Engine House Visitor Centre was home to a vintage market, while a replica air-raid shelter, a bombed-out building, a shop, an ARP post, a hospital train and classic and military vehicle displays were also on offer, along with a range of music and entertainment along the line.

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