A LANDSLIP, locomotive problems, appalling weather and a massive slump in profits derailed 30th anniversary celebrations for a major Kidderminster attraction.

Heavy rain caused the closure of Severn Valley Railway between Bridgnorth and Hampton Load for several days when a complete embankment was washed away at Knowlesands, boiler problems forced the cancellation of the annual Autumn Steam Gala, while "terrible weather" and a petrol shortage hit visitor numbers.

In his annual report for the year ending December 2000, SVR chairman Paul Fathers described the previous 12 months as "eventful" and "challenging".

Turnover was down by £109,000 on the previous year to £3,231,000, a fall which Mr Fathers said was due to several factors including the shortage of serviceable locomotives which forced SVR's withdrawal from mainline running and reduced locomotive hire to other railways.

And profits, which totalled £55,532 in 1999, the company's record year, plummeted to just £5,184.

But in its annual report, SVR, which operates between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth, said despite problems during 2000, the company had made advances.

A dozen carriages were refurbished or received major mechanical overhauls, toilets were refurbished at Arley, a massive carriage shed was constructed ahead of schedule and the company's website registered its millionth 'hit'.

In addition, the filming of Unconditional Love and the demonstration of a moving sign system in the Bewdley tunnel brought in added revenue.

Mr Fathers added: "Despite our problems we carried 227,225 passengers, just 785 fewer than in 1999, our record year.

"This provided a creditable average of 985 passengers per operating day, up three per cent on the previous year due to our running on slightly fewer days.

"By comparison, many tourist attractions reported a significant reduction in visitor numbers during the year."

He described the last 12 months as a "year of contrasting fortunes" and said 2001 offered the chance to build on the company's success.

But he warned: "The dreadful outbreak of foot and mouth disease will undoubtedly affect the railway, as it will many businesses. We have taken appropriate steps to minimise the financial burden a reduction in passengers will impose on the business."