SEVERN Valley Railway has announced "very special attractions" taking place on selected days during the Easter holiday season.

The railway will be open from Saturday, March 23 through till Thursday 4 April.

On March  23 and 24, there are just a few pre-bookable slots left to meet everyone’s favourite TV character Bluey at The Engine House, Highley.

The Engine House will also be hoisting magic shows, mini golf, interactive exhibits and an outdoor play area over the two days.

Over the same weekend, Bridgnorth station is hosting a free mini gala packed with railway- and steam-themed attractions, including a display of full-size and miniature traction engines, Wolverhampton & District Model Engineering Society’s ride-on miniature railway, and an O gauge model railway static display featuring Bridgnorth station and several SVR-based locomotives. 

There is also a chance to encounter the replica of Richard Trevithick’s 1808 locomotive ‘Catch Me Who Can’, various historical photographic exhibitions, and on Saturday only, short guided walks with an SVR archivist to uncover the history of Bridgnorth station.

The activities run from 10am to 5pm on Saturday 23, and from 10am to 4pm on Sunday 24.

Throughout the Easter season week, young visitors can take part in the SVR’s Easter quiz, cracking clues, solving puzzles and spotting items as they travel along the line. Free trail sheets will be available from the booking office, and everyone who completes the trail will receive a treat.

At the Engine House, Highley, at the mid-point of the 16-mile line, visitors can experience what life is like on the footplate, discover how a steam engine operates and check out the hidden past of Britain’s railways.

SVR’s visitor engagement manager Lewis Maddox said: “We’ve made sure there’s plenty on offer to keep everyone amused, and a great day out is guaranteed.

"Our volunteers have been putting the final touches to our beautifully kept stations, and polishing the fleet of steam and heritage diesel locomotives that will whisk you away into the Worcestershire and Shropshire countryside".

Tickets are available now with Freedom-of-the-Line family tickets starting at just £50, and short journey family tickets starting at £35.