Funding hope for SVR site

The stricken Severn Valley Railway could get vital cash from the European Union Solidarity Fund for emergency aid after the recent flooding disaster.

Liz Lynne, Liberal Democrat MEP for the West Midlands, wrote to local Government Minister John Healey in August urging him to ensure the railway was included in the bid.

She said she had now received a reply from the Minister confirming the railway's inclusion.

Liz said: "This is fantastic news for all those whose livelihoods depend on the railway. I was most anxious that the enormous cost of repair to this major local attraction and important part of the local economy was included in the bid so I am delighted to receive the Minister's reply."

The United Kingdom has applied for £2.9 billion from the Solidarity Fund to help people across the country get over the flooding disaster.

The call is set to be discussed by the European Parliament, its budget committee and the Council of Ministers in the next few months before being voted on by all MEPs.

The railway was severely damaged by the floods during June and July.

A large part of the route is currently closed for repairs.