SEVERN Valley Railway (SVR) will play host to modern rail royalty when UK Railtours’ Silver King takes to the rails.

Starting its journey in London Marylebone on Saturday, September 6, the 3000 horse powered, air-conditioned train will travel on the Chiltern Line before arriving in Kidderminster.

Once there it will cross on to the SVR and continue through the restored stations at Bewdley, Arley, Highley and Hampton Loade to the end of the line at Bridgnorth.

At Bridgnorth, the train will become available for public use on the return journey to Kidderminster, where visitors will have the opportunity to view the train on the platform.

The Silver King features mark three carriages hauled by a Class 67 diesel electric locomotive, all in silver livery.

At the other end of the train, a matching driving van trailer will be operating in push-pull mode.

Clare Gibbard, marketing and communications manager, said: “The visit of the Silver King is very exciting for the Severn Valley Railway.

“It is unusual to see a modern train on a heritage steam railway, stopping at stations which are over 150 years old.

“SVR passengers on the day will have the opportunity to travel on the Silver King as it will form part of the timetable, so its visit will prove quite an experience for some.”

Following the Silver King’s visit, the railway will also be playing host to its On The Buses event on Sunday, September 7.

During the day, Bewdley station will be taken over by a display of historic public service vehicles from all parts of the country, including a 1950s double-decker bus, which doubles as a fully-licensed bar.

There will also be sales and information stands, die cast and tinplate toys and the opportunity for visitors to enjoy bus rides around Bewdley town centre.