As the formal consultation period starts on 18 jobs at SVR the trials and tribulations of balancing a budget during a severe cost of living crisis hits home. The very survival.of this Heritage railway is threatened.

It is deeply ironic and notable that the ongoing Nation wide strike action on the rail network is not leaving a good impression of railways on the cash strapped and potential customers in any Heritage Rails battle to gain our reduced leisure expenditure.

Rising costs for coal, steel and electricity added to last summer’s fall in passengers numbers have placed this season’s train scheduled under review.

Special days, weddings, first class carriages afternoon teas, three day steam extravaganzas and scenic countryside can attract customers if people have the cash.

Sadly, with the River Severn being placed on the most polluted rivers list in England, through sewage overflows, raises doubts about Severn Trent Waters support for our heritage, green and pleasant land and local leisure industries.

Let’s hope the dedication and hard work of the SVR staff and volunteers is rewarded this summer with your support and you may all enjoy a grand day out on a great steam railway.

Steams up for the SVR.

Doug James, Walsall