Let's rally behind the Severn Valley Railway as it deals with landslip

It brings together the young and old, giving joy to thousands upon thousands of passengers every year, from diehard rail buffs to families who just fancy a nostalgic day out in glorious countryside.

Which makes the landslip that occurred at Asbury, near Bridgnorth all the more frustrating, particularly as the attraction would now be gearing up for the important half-term holidays.

It is important to stress that most of the railway is still open for business, with only the final four miles the route out of action for repairs. But the cost of repairs are expected to run into hundreds of thousands of pounds, which is always difficult for a charity that is run by volunteers. It has also meant that the team has had to transport a locomotive by road from Bridgnorth to Kidderminster to keep the attraction running.

The one thing in the Severn Valley Railway's favour is that it is nothing if not resourceful. The attraction owes its existence to the determination of volunteers determined to keep it running, after the bean counters at British Railways said it was not viable. We have no doubt that this spirit of positivity will win through, and fully expect it to be back to normal in the summer.

The railway says it has been overwhelmed by the goodwill of its supporters, and we can't say we are surprised.

In the meantime, let's all do our bit to get behind the attraction, and if you were thinking of taking a trip on the Severn Valley over half-term, we suggest you do just that. 

It will be well worth the effort.