The Severn Valley Railway is primarily a preserved line using steam locomotives However, it was recognised that the heritage type of diesel multiple units or, DMU's as they are termed, still deserved a place on the railway. 

Many hundreds of these trains were built in the 50's and 60's for use all over Britain as part of a modernisation scheme. Most have now disappeared forever and only due the dedication of the members of the DMU Group (West Midlands) have 5 of the coaches been saved for use on the Severn Valley Railway. They have now been in preservation action here for more than fifteen years

Today the DMU's do not replace steam operated trains and instead they supplement them with extra services, including a very popular Saturday evening 'Scenic Rail Cruise' special.

 Paul Jackson, June 2005
 

DMU's are groups of 2 or 3 interconnected coaches using diesel engines as a method of propulsion, which are located underneath the floor. The grouped coaches can be joined to other similar groups to form a multiple of these units requiring only one driver to control them in this situation.

Paul Jackson, August 2003 

In the end coaches of each group the glass front offers splendid panoramic views of the Severn Valley Line for the travelling occupants and prove to be very popular. You can also see what the driver gets up to.

 

The DMU comes complete with a refreshment counter service offering hot and cold drinks, alcoholic beverages plus light snacks such as chocolate, crisps, etc. This is called the 'The Wheel Tappers and Shunters Bar' and is normally open on most services.

Quite separate from the refreshment counter mentioned above is a dedicated dining car, complete with an on-board kitchen area, which offers hot meals to pre-booked diners typically when the 'Saturday Evening Scenic Rail Cruise' is operating. 

Did you know that it is possible to hire out the DMU for your own exclusive charter or special excursion along the Severn Valley Railway? Event organisers should contact the Railway Headquarters at Bewdley for more information click here (links  through to external Severn Valley Railway website)

 
Paul Jackson, June 2005