Volunteers wanted to help bring ‘brilliant’ Railway 200 Inspiration train to life this half term

The Severn Valley Railway is calling on members of the public to step forward and volunteer during the return visit of the Railway 200 Inspiration exhibition train this May half term.

The ‘brilliant’ and free-to-visit Railway 200 Inspiration train will be at Kidderminster from Saturday 23 to Sunday 31 May, offering families and young people the opportunity to explore this unique and immersive experience.

More than 70,000 people have already stepped aboard Inspiration during its 60-stop, year-long tour of Britain, with nine out of ten visitors saying they would recommend it to a friend. As the train approaches the end of its nationwide journey, this marks a rare second visit to the Severn Valley Railway, where its tour began in June 2025.

To help deliver the event, the SVR is seeking up to eight volunteers per day. No qualifications or prior experience are required, just enthusiasm and a willingness to get involved. Volunteers must be aged 18 or over and available from 9.30am to 5.30pm, with the exhibition open to the public between 10.00am and 5.00pm. Briefing documents will be provided in advance, alongside on-the-day safety and crowd management guidance from the Railway 200 team.

SVR visitor engagement manager Lewis Maddox said:

“Railway 200’s Inspiration has already delighted tens of thousands of people across the country, and we’re thrilled to welcome it back to the Severn Valley Railway. This is a fantastic opportunity to volunteer and be part of something truly special; supporting visitors, bringing the exhibition to life, and helping create memorable experiences for families during the half-term holiday. We’d love to hear from anyone who can lend a hand.”

Anyone interested in volunteering is invited to email [email protected].

Visitors wishing to experience Railway 200 Inspiration during its stay can attend free of charge, although advance booking is required via svr.co.uk, with a small booking fee applying.