Mark Garnier has today expressed his support for the Severn valley Railway appeal. During torrential rain last week, forty five areas of subsidence developed on the Bewdley to Bridgenorth section of the 16 mile track.
Whilst the SVR Company can handle a lot of the repair work itself, heavy plant and machinery will be required in at least nine locations. The cost of this vital repair work is at least £500,000, and the estimated cost to bring the line back to its former glory exceeds £1,000,000. Because this was an "act of God", insurance does not cover this damage.
Mark Garnier commented:
"The Severn Valley Railway is one this country's greatest assets and it is truly tragic that is has suffered like this. It is a key tourist attraction for Wyre Forest and although the Kidderminster to Bewdley section is still open, visitor numbers will inevitably be down.
"Many of my Conservative colleagues are already working to see if money can be raised, but I would urge everyone to make a donation to the Severn valley Flood Damage Appeal."
Online donations can be made via the Severn Valley website http://www.svr.co.uk/appeal.php or cheques made payable to "Severn Valley Railway Flood Damage Appeal" can be sent to:
The SVR Appeal
Severn Valley Railway
The Railway Station
Bewdley
Worcestershire
DY12 1BG