Historic DMU Group and KEMP Hospice Bring the Community Together for Special Severn Valley Railway Day

A special day of railway heritage, community spirit and fundraising on the Severn Valley Railway on Saturday 15th August, when KEMP were warmly welcomed aboard the DMU Group (West Midlands)’s Summer Special charter.

The event marked the first community partnership for the DMU Group, a volunteer-run charity based on the Severn Valley Railway. The Group owns, restores and maintains eight historic Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs), built between 1957 and 1961.

These vehicles hold an important place in Britain’s railway history, being among the first generation of this type of train. Thanks to the dedication of the Group’s volunteers, they continue to be restored, maintained and operated, allowing people to experience these pioneering trains first-hand while helping to preserve their history for future generations.

We were delighted to be part of this new partnership, which provided the DMU Group with an opportunity to support KEMP’s work in the local community, while giving our guests the chance to enjoy a memorable day travelling through the beautiful Severn Valley aboard these historic trains.

With the kind and generous support of Roxel UK, 10 people from KEMP were warmly welcomed on board the Summer Special. The day brought together railway heritage and community support, creating an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

The Summer Special also saw the launch of the DMU Group’s first ‘Super Tombola’, with every ticket guaranteed to win a prize. The initiative was made possible thanks to the generosity of a number of local businesses and individuals, who donated a fantastic selection of prizes. Proceeds from the tombola will go towards the much-needed restoration and maintenance of the Group’s historic vehicles.

It was an enjoyable and memorable day, and the event proved to be a great success. A wonderful example of the positive impact that partnerships between local organisations can have, bringing people together while supporting causes that make a real difference in our community.

The DMU Group is managed entirely by volunteers, with active working members giving their time, skills and expertise to the ongoing restoration and maintenance of the vehicles, supported by a wider membership.

We’d like to thank the DMU Group, Roxel UK and everyone who helped make the day such a memorable experience for our guests.