We travelled once more on the Severn Valley Railway for the annual “Step Back to the 1940’s ” weekend. It is a lighthearted event where there is lots going on up and down the line. Re-enactors and ordinary members of the public dress up in period costume to enter into the fun. And, of course, there are the much-loved steam trains.
On pretty Arley station a wartime “wedding” takes place complete with cardboard wedding cake! In the gardens at the side of the tracks there were Dig for Britain allotments, encampments and the occasional unexploded bomb.
Down at Kidderminster station you can see “1940s” rooms, shops and air raid shelters. Entertainment was provided by the “Andrews Sisters”, jitterbug dancers, “George Formby” and crooners. “Winston Churchill” gave his famous Battle of Britain speech followed by a flypast of old aircraft. In the evening the Big Band played. On the concourse outside there were vintage vehicles, buses and motorcycles.
In the Engine House at Highley there is a permanent exhibition, which is well worth a visit and the refreshment rooms. Here we were privileged to meet Officer Crabtree from Hallo Hallo.
On board the train there was more entertainment with singers walking through the carriages, a spiv tempting us with silk stockings or corsets from his black market stash. A group of military police stopped by us – trying to look serious. The beautiful Shropshire Hills and the River Servern provided a relaxing backdrop as the steam train puffed its way along the track.
Back at Bridgnorth there were stalls selling vintage items and more singers to entertain us. On the platform is the souvenir shop and refreshment rooms. While in the Railwaymens Arms there is a wide choice of alcohol including an array of real ales on offer.
On the way home, you’ll find yourself humming all the familiar tunes and singing “We’ll Meet Again”.
A good day out!