£1.8m is raised for Severn Valley Railway offer
A late surge in applications has seen Bridgnorth's Severn Valley Railway share offer reach the £1.8million mark.
The rate of applications and enquiries for the offer is said to be at an all-time high, with £103,000 coming in between Monday and Friday last week alone.
Though delighted with the latest milestone, organisers are hoping that the final few remaining days of the year-long share offer campaign will see the increased volume of purchases continue.
Now, there is just under two weeks to reach the £2.5million target before the deadline on October 31.
Long-time volunteer and SVR board member Tony Bending said: “We are delighted to see this last-minute increase in share applications and are working hard to process them all before the deadline, after which no more applications can be accepted.”
Mr Bending said that the funds will play a key part in securing the railway for the future.
He said: “Each pound coming in now brings us nearer to fulfilling our dreams of creating new and improved visitor facilities at Bridgnorth, while protecting and preserving the historic jewel in the crown of the Severn Valley Railway for current and future generations.”
Mr Bending also urged those thinking of purchasing shares to apply as soon as possible to ensure that their applications can be processed before the deadline.
The Bridgnorth Share Offer campaign was launched in November last year, with the entire proceeds from the initiative going towards the creation of improved visitor facilities, access, and parking at the Railway’s Northern terminus.
The project would also help to conserve and enhance the architectural integrity of the distinctive, Grade II listed, neo-Jacobean station, which was built in 1862.
The overall target was £2.5million, and money raised so far will pay for phase one of the ambitious project.
The first phase will cover the construction of a brand new refreshment room and toilet building, refurbishment and renovation of the existing station building, and the first part of an extensive tree-planting scheme.
However, the amount raised to date will not extend pay for all of phase two, which includes the installation of a locomotive turntable, the creation of additional car parking, and a new access road.
Those wishing to donate to the Bridgnorth Development Fund without purchasing shares can do so through the Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust, which may then be able to apply for a further 25 per cent Gift Aid on donations from taxpayers.
People can do so by visiting www.svrtrust.org.uk to download a Bridgnorth donation form.
Alternatively people can call 01562 757900.
