All aboard! - Paddington Bear is coming to Shropshire and the Severn Valley Railway

Between Tuesday, February 18 and Thursday, February 20, visitors will have the chance to meet Paddington Bear aboard the exciting heritage train ride to The Engine House in Highley.

The iconic character will make appearances at regular intervals throughout the days, and pose for pictures. 

Visitor engagement manager at Severn Valley Railway, Lewis Maddox said: "This is a chance for parents and grandparents to create special memories with their young ones as they travel on board a heritage train to The Engine House, Highley, where Paddington will be waiting to meet them in their pre-booked time slot. 

"It’s going to be a fantastic photo opportunity - marmalade sandwiches are optional!"

The heritage railway site which is run by a dedicated body of more than 1,600 volunteers is celebrating its 60th anniversary throughout this year.

The full-size, standard-gauge railway line runs regular steam, and diesel-hauled passenger trains along a scenic 16-mile route between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth for visitors and enthusiasts alike to enjoy.

And, there are six beautifully-maintained stations along the route including the Engine House Visitor Centre at Highley where visitors can meet Paddington next month.

Visitors can pre-book train tickets, and make their journey from either Kidderminster or Bridgnorth. Tickets include reserved seats on a heritage train and timed entry tickets to see Paddington at The Engine House, Highley. 

Families can also travel back on a train of their choice, with unreserved seating.

Alongside meeting Paddington at The Engine House, there are plenty of other fun activities to keep everyone entertained. 

Children can let off steam in the heritage railway's outdoor play area or get hands-on sorting mail in the travelling post office, and there will also be magic shows throughout the day and mini golf to enjoy.

For further information and to book tickets visit svr.co.uk.