Severn Valley Railway's shares go on sale

The railway line marked its 150th anniversary in May

Shares in Severn Valley Railway have gone on sale in a bid to provide investment in the 150-year-old line.

General manager Nick Ralls said shareholders would get discounts and a say in the running of the attraction.

The 16-mile heritage line follows the River Severn from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth, attracting about 200,000 visitors a year.

It is hoped the move will raise £3m towards project such as a new heritage and engineering training academy.

Severn Valley Railway also aims to refurbish the railway infrastructure and restore Bridgnorth station "to its Victorian glory".

The shares cost £1 each, with a minimum investment of £100.

Mr Ralls said: "The demands of operating a 150-year-old railway are considerable.

"We are committed to ensuring the infrastructure is properly maintained, that rolling stock is of a high standard and that visitors have the kind of facilities they expect."