Deadline today for SVR Bridgnorth station refurb share offer
A last ditch plea for donations to renovate Severn Valley Railway's Bridgnorth station has been made as fundraising comes to a close today.
SVR's share offer campaign has now hit the £2.3 million barrier – but £200,000 is still needed to reach the overall target.
The 12-month campaign has been raising funds to transform visitor facilities at Bridgnorth Station by selling shares in the railway at a price of £1 each.
It has already raised more £2,328,000 with applications now flooding in at their fastest ever rate.
All of the money raised will go towards the biggest redevelopment project in the railway's history.
Since the start of September, more than three quarters of a million pounds has been raised and half-term visitors dug deep to buy an extra 60,000 shares at Bridgnorth and Kidderminster stations during the last week.
As postal applications still continue to arrive, Tony Bending, long-standing SVR volunteer and Bridgnorth Project Team member has been delighted with the response.
He said, "We are truly humbled by the public’s support for the railway, especially in recent weeks. Each day takes us to a new high and we’d like to sincerely thank all of those who have made this possible for us.
"For those still wishing to join in, time is extremely tight but it is still possible to apply.
"Whilst web and postal applications have now closed, those still wanting to buy should download a share offer document from our website or pick one up at Bridgnorth Station before returning the application form to us in person. We will be at Bridgnorth Station today accepting applications until 1pm and can take payment by cash, cheque or card.
"As well as playing an important part in preserving our wonderful station, buyers also receive generous travel benefits. A minimum shareholding of 100 shares brings with it one Freedom of the Line ticket each year of the shareholding so buyers could recoup the value of the purchase in just a few years."
The last chance to buy in person from Bridgnorth or Kidderminster station is 1pm today.
Meanwhile, stunningly spooky shot above was taken along the Severn Valley Railway as part of its Halloween festivities.
The Ghost Train travelled down the eerie railway across three darks nights before stopping at the haunted Arley Station.
Captured by journalist and photographer David Dew, it shows the mysterious steam engine sitting in the colourful mist – with a terrifying shadow and coffin standing on the opposite platform.
The Ghost Trains took place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday of last week – selling out to members of the public.
Mr Dew, aged 40, from Stourbridge, said: "I knew that train was running so we went to have a look. I spent an hour on the bridge and there was various Halloween trains running.
"To get that colourful effect I used a very long exposure with the shutter open. My dad's been a member of the Severn Valley Railway for the 50 years os I spent quite a lot of time there with him.
"All along the one side of the platform, there was about 40 volunteers and as the train pulled in there was clowns and brides with blood all over their faces.
"It was terrifying! I'm not sure I fancy a clown creeping on me on the dark. The did three nights in total and seemed to be really popular."
Shares can be purchased by contacting the SVR on 01562 757900, using option two daily to find out more.
For more information, and to download a prospectus, visit svr.co.uk/ShareOffer
