A Class 73 locomotive named after SVR supporter Paul Taylor, is the latest addition to Severn Valley Railway's Spring Diesel Festival, running from May 16-19.

GB Railfreight has given permission for the 73119 locomotive to make an appearance, a significant event for many at the line. Introduced between 1962 and 1967, there are 39 Class 73s still in operation out of 49.

Despite being primarily third-rail DC electric locomotives, their additional 650hp diesel engine allows operation beyond electrified rails.

“This feature makes them incredibly versatile," explained the SVR’s managing director, Jonathan Dunster. "Although, as you might expect, they’re very low-powered when operating on diesel power.

"However, that’s not something to concern us at our event, because this will be about the sheer curiosity value of operating a locomotive like this on a heritage line.

“Paul Taylor, whose name the loco carries, was a dear friend to me and many others associated with the SVR, and we are especially pleased that GBRf have agreed to the appearance of 73119.”