THE Severn Valley Railway is welcoming people on board a trip to the past as it commemorates war-time era anniversaries.

The attraction will host 1940s weekends along the line, arriving on June 30 – July 1 and July 7 – July 8, where stations will hold re-enactments, entertainment and activities for the family to enjoy.

Britain’s Got Talent finalists the D-Day Darlings will be serenading Kidderminster crowds every day and at the evening Big Band Concerts on June 30 and July 7 from 7.30pm, which will also feature a jazz orchestra playing 1940s favourites.

Lewis Maddox, the SVR’s events co-ordinator said: “To commemorate the centenary of the ending of World War 1, we are very privileged to have the Cavell Van on display at Arley Station.

“In 1919 it was used to bring back the body of nurse Edith Cavell from Belgium, where she had helped 200 Prisoners of War escape before she was caught and executed.

“It was also used to transport the body of the Unknown Warrior prior to a funeral at Westminster Abbey.

“At Bewdley, visitors can see a replica of the Mk X1 Spitfire, flown by the famous James Edgar ‘Johnnie’ Johnson – the highest scoring RAF pilot to survive the war.

It will be on display to mark the 100th anniversary of the creation of the RAF.

Kidderminster will host an array of ‘out of the past’ displays, including a fire fighting re-enactment, shop displays, replica air raid shelters and free vintage bus rides.

Visitors at Arley station can witness a war time wedding on the platform, as well as see casualties of war treated in the Hospital train house, where Highley station will transport guests to two after the D-Day landings to see a battle re-enactment outside The Engine House.

Bridgnorth visitors can visit The Railwayman’s Arms and enjoy 1940s music, as well as vintage vehicles and memorabilia on display.

For more information and to book tickets, people can visit www.svr.co.uk, call 01562 757900 or visit the Severn Valley Railway Families or Official Site Facebook pages.