The SVR Charitable Trust has announced an impressive start to its Home & Dry appeal, having already secured £250,000, just six weeks after the launch of the appeal. “The appeal has gained considerable momentum since its launch in mid-May,” said Shelagh Paterson, the Trust’s director of development. “We’ve received donations of more than £197,000, with over £70,000 raised in the last three weeks alone!
“We are thrilled with the support shown by members, donors and shareholders alike. We have a target of £425,000 to ensure all the necessary improvements can be made at Bridgnorth loco works and we’ve now secured almost 60% of this amount. From everyone at the SVR, a huge thank you for your amazing dedication to the future of this wonderful heritage railway!”
Proceeds from the Home & Dry appeal will go towards transforming Bridgnorth locomotive works, helping to fund a new roof, a travelling crane and energy efficiency measures.
As part of the appeal, the Home & Dry raffle raised a net total of more than £31,000. The raffle was drawn on 30th June by volunteer project co-ordinator Antony Bartlam and SVR head of engineering Martin White, who – most appropriately – drew the winning tickets out of the safety valve bonnet from locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall. Martin commented, “This is a fantastic result from the raffle, every penny of profit going towards the refurbishment and improvement of Bridgnorth locomotive works.”
Winners were spread across the whole of the UK with the £1,000 winning ticket going to a lucky supporter in Abergele, Wales. All winners will receive their prizes within the next few weeks.
There is still plenty of time to contribute to the appeal. Donations of £75 and above will not only pay for a steel purlin for the new roof, but will also secure the donor a signed, limited edition Alan Reade print of Bridgnorth locomotive works. All donations of any amount will be very gratefully received and can be made online at svrtrust.org.uk/home-and-dry.
Image: View inside the loco works, with water on floor from roof leaks. Andrew Bartlam
