Mr. Ball has stepped down as chairman of SVR (Holdings) Plc with effect from 31st March 2023, after 37 years of commitment to to the attraction.

Mike’s contribution ranged from being a member of station staff, signalman, guard, and a director of both the SVR Company Ltd and SVR (Holdings) Plc.

The SVR’s managing director and deputy chairman Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster paid tribute to Mike. He said:

: “I don’t think any words from me can adequately describe the monumental contribution Mike has made to the SVR over the years I have known him.

"His efforts have been magnificent and have literally saved the Railway on more than one occasion.

“On a personal level, Mike has been a true inspiration to me ever since he first suggested that I might consider joining the Board, in his words "to give something back to the Railway.

"His wise counsel has always been available and his considered, broad-minded approach, always looking at the bigger picture, has been an example to us all as to how senior leaders in a business should behave in order for the organisation to flourish. I wish Mike all the very best for the future and I’m really pleased that he will continue as both a volunteer and supporter of the railway going forward.”

Chris Walton has agreed to step in as interim chairman of SVR (Holdings) Plc. Chris has been actively involved with the SVR since 1969, as both a guard and then as Bridgnorth station master for 33 years. He’s served at board level for 40 years.

Before retiring as a chartered management accountant, he held roles at senior management level across several leading automotive companies. Gus added:

“I am extremely grateful to Chris for taking on this key role.

”His longstanding experience both as a volunteer at the railway and from his professional life mean that he brings to the role of chairman a very welcome blend of financial acumen and passion for the SVR.”