The Severn Valley Railway is adding its support to the Ukrainian Crisis Appeal that is being run by the Red Cross.

The railway will donate to the Appeal a proportion of this weekend’s profits from services this coming weekend, Saturday, 2nd and Sunday, 3rd July. Collections will also be made from passengers on behalf of the charity.

Since the Russian invasion, Red Cross teams have been working around the clock to get critical care to those who need it most, both in Ukraine and its bordering countries. The charity is also offering medical care, food, and shelter to people leaving the war-torn country, both in Ukraine’s neighbouring countries and the UK.

During the weekend visitors to the railway will have the opportunity to enjoy a fly past by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Lancaster aircraft.

On Saturday 2nd, the Lancaster will arrive around 3.05 pm and then fly from Bridgnorth to Bewdley via Highley. On Sunday 3rd, the Lancaster will arrive at Bewdley around 2.30 pm, then fly along the route of the line via Highley to Bridgnorth.

Tickets to travel on the railway can be pre-booked on the Severn Valley Railway website at svr.co.uk

Michael Dunn, the SVR’s head of visitor experience, said:

“When we cancelled our Step Back to the 1940s weekends as a mark of respect to people suffering in Ukraine, we also pledged to give direct support in the form of a charitable donation.”

“This weekend would have seen one of our 1940s events, so we thought it fitting to make this the focus of our efforts. As well as donating from the SVR’s operating profits, our volunteers will be taking bucket collections from passengers who want to add their own donations.

“We’re also working closely with local organisations to host visits by refugee families, both from Ukraine and other countries affected by war.”

The image of 75069 above is from our 2022 Severn Valley Railway Gala Visit, you can find out more by clicking here.