After the successful completion of the Falling Sands Viaduct restoration, two new exhibitions have now been officially opened at The Engine House, Highley and in a restored guard’s van at Kidderminster Town station, thanks to the support of donors, grant makers and a significant grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The exhibition at Highley brings to life the history of the Severn Valley Railway and its preservation, why viaducts are so important and the significance of Falling Sands.
The guard’s van exhibition, housed in No. 2886, known as the ‘Stove R’, builds on this, showing the important role the Railway had in enabling businesses in the area to trade nationally, the types of goods that were transported and the difference this made.
More than 30 volunteers who have been involved in the restoration of the Falling Sands Viaduct and the development of the exhibitions were invited to the opening.
The projects received the equivalent of £75,000 in volunteer support and the Charitable Trust is grateful to everyone who has been involved in delivering these projects so successfully.
Volunteers were also instrumental in the comprehensive public engagement to expand education around the Severn Valley Railway.
This included an illuminated ceremony involving poetry and songs written by Kidderminster & District Youth Trust participants; the recording of audio stories by members of the Rose Theatre used in the exhibitions and the development of a game by students at Kidderminster College.
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The project doesn’t end there. The aim is to create a legacy that can be enjoyed by visitors for years to come thanks to the support of the volunteers who are taking it forward.
Entry to both exhibitions is free, so why not visit them next time you are at the Railway?