THE TEAM that saved Severn Valley Railway from an ‘existential threat’ following the landslip at Mor Brook bridge has been nominated for a national award.
The team that worked on the Mor Brook Bridge has been nominated for the project team or person prize at the RailStaff awards.
Earlier this year, the landslip at Mor Brook bridge struck the Severn Valley Railway, leaving the heritage line unable to operate a full service.
With the line only running for 12 of its 16 miles, passenger numbers plummeted, with bosses at the railway describing the lost revenue as an ‘existential threat’ to its future.
Despite this, a remarkable team effort meant the issue was solved in just six months, despite Severn Valley Railway having almost no spare money or manpower.
The Severn Valley Railway has two more nominees in other categories, with Antony Bartlam up for rail engineer of the year and Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster up for rail ambassador of the year.
The shortlisting process was determined through a public vote.
Severn Valley Railway’s head of communications, Lesley Carr, said: “This is the very first time the SVR has entered the RailStaff Awards, so to reach the finals in all three of our nominated categories is absolutely incredible.
“We’re flying the flag for the heritage sector and showing that the professionalism, skills, and passion here at the SVR are on a par with the wider rail industry.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support from our visitors, members, and volunteers.
“It means so much to know that people value what we do and have helped us on our way to the finals.”
“The RailStaff Awards celebrate the people and teams who go the extra mile for colleagues, passengers, and the wider public—recognising dedication, innovation, and excellence across the rail industry.
“To be recognised alongside national rail organisations really highlights the calibre of the people we have at the Severn Valley Railway,” said Lesley. “Antony, Gus, and the Mor Brook Bridge team have all made exceptional contributions, and we couldn’t be prouder.”
Winners will be announced on November 27 at the RailStaff Awards ceremony.
