On the buses event at Severn Valley Railway

News stories are free to read. Click here for full access to all the features, articles and archive from only £8.99.

Severn Valley Railway held its annual ‘On the Buses’ event at Bewdley Station in Worcestershire on Sunday 2 September.

The rally, which is organised by volunteers, has seen major growth and support with 31 vehicles attending from many operators and preservationists, although this year had a large number of Midland Red vehicles attending from the past and present.

As well as the static display, there is a frequent circular bus service operating to nearby Stourport-on-Severn which is included in the admission price of £2, or free if you are a Severn Valley Railway ‘Freedom of the Line’ ticket holder.

Enthusiast sales stands and hot and cold refreshments were also available on the day.

Last year saw one of Arriva London’s New Routemasters in operation on the service which caused much interest with the locals in Stourport High Street.

Space is tight at this event, but with some excellent planning all 31 vehicles managed to fit into the station yard and entry ramp.

Operators wishing to attend next year’s event should check Severn Valley Railway’s website: www.svr.co.uk

Freshly painted First Midland Red Buses Driver Trainer Volvo B10B 60311, M516 PNA was one of two buses representing the current Midland Red at the event. RICHARD SHARMAN
One of the main attractions at the event was the attendance of Jonathon Coles’ former Midland Red North Leyland National 2 which has been freshly painted in National Bus Company’s poppy red with Chaserider vinyls. This vehicle looked in as-new condition and is a credit to the owner. RICHARD SHARMAN 

 

Immaculately presented Leyland Tiger/Plaxton Paramount 3200 II 1006, B106 JAB owned by Julie Aylward is the sole surviving example of this batch of six which was new to Midland Red West’s Midwest division in the shortlived Eurocruising livery. RICHARD SHARMAN
Fresh from Imber, Peter Hendy’s Cummins Euro VI powered RM1005 was operating the circular service for most of the afternoon with good loadings and detailed destination blinds for the event. It is seen on the Bewdley Road in Stourport-on-Severn. RICHARD SHARMAN