WORCESTERSHIRE'S Severn Valley Railway has been shortlisted as one of the UK’s top historic gems by the BBC’s Countryfile Magazine and now needs to win the public vote to be crowned the number one heritage site in Britain.

The shortlist was chosen by television presenter Jules Hudson, the face of many BBC lifestyle and history series including Escape to the Country, Britain’s Empty Homes, Britain’s Heritage Heroes and, most latterly, Countryfile.

The awards cover 12 categories, nominated by experts in their field, including beach of the year, landmark of the year, rural pub of the year and greatest national park.

Voting closes on January 31 with winners announced in the April edition of the magazine. To vote, visit http://www.countryfile.com/awards2014-15 or send an email with your selections to awards@countryfile.com