HORSE power and steam power will join forces at a fundraising event in aid of one of Worcestershire’s premier visitor attractions.

A special horse racing race day will be held at Worcester Racecourse on Wednesday (June 24) with the aim of raising funds to safeguard the long-term future of the Severn Valley Railway.

Seven jumps will take place throughout the day while a full-sized tank locomotive will be located at the finish line.

Phil Dutton, chairman of the organising committee, said: “Though the railway is this year celebrating its 50th anniversary, much of its infrastructure dates back to well before this – and running such a popular attraction with such a huge range of historic buildings, rolling stock and infrastructure demands a vast and continuous financial input.

“Many people do not realise that the day-to-day income that the Severn Valley Railway generates is not enough to cover restoration or development – it is reliant upon its dedicated body of 1,500 volunteers as well as money raised by the Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust to not only keep it running on a daily basis, but also to ensure it is maintained and protected into the future.

“Events like this race day are invaluable ways in which to raise this much-needed income and we would love as many people as possible to come along and help us to protect this amazing attraction for future generations.”

Visitors can bring a picnic and relax in the centre course enclosure whilst enjoying the afternoon of racing, visiting the Severn Valley Railway’s tank engine or browsing stalls with Severn Valley Railway merchandise.

More than 200 guests have already booked to experience the VIP hospitality in the racing suite, which includes lunch and a fundraising auction.

Gates open at 12.20pm and the first of seven jumps start at 2.20pm with the last race at 5.35pm.

For every centre course ticket sold £3 will be donated to the Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust

To buy tickets contact Worcester Racecourse on 01905 25364.