Visitors to the Severn Valley Railway will get the chance to wish happy birthday to a grand old steam locomotive, as No 4566 celebrates its first century.

The locomotive is on static display at The Engine House, Highley and its supporters are busy raising funds for its overhaul and return to service. The 4566 Preservation Group is holding a country fete-style event during the weekend of 31 August and 1 September.

‘We want to celebrate 4566’s 100^th birthday in grand style,’ said group member Sheena Strevens, ‘and we thought a summer fete would be very fitting. There’ll be a party atmosphere, with art competitions, a magic show (Saturday only), classic games and activities, a raffle and tombola, opportunities to chat with group members, and of course things wouldn’t be complete without a special birthday cake!

‘This year, we’re really ramping up our fundraising efforts, and hope to raise £100,000. Our ambition is to return this splendid locomotive to service on the SVR, and to preserve its legacy for future generations.’

Locomotive 4566 is a small prairie tank engine, and typical of the Great Western Railway’s rural and branch line services in the days of steam. It was built in 1924 at Swindon Works, and diligently hauled both passenger and freight trains until its withdrawal from service in the early 1960s.

Also on Saturday 31 August, the SVR is running short footplate rides from its station at Bewdley.

For more information and to pre-book tickets, visit the Ticket page..