Michael York - the 2008 Award Winner!
The Preservationist of the Year award for 2008 goes to Dr Michael York, Chairman of the Severn Valley Railway. The award recognises his achievement in leading his organisation through a tremendous struggle against the adversity caused by a natural disaster. The flooding of June 2007 when the River Severn burst its banks following sudden storm rains caused massive destruction to the Severn Valley Railway. It was reported that two weeks' worth of rain fell in 45 minutes, causing some 45 separate breaches of the line. In some sections embankments were washed away completely, leaving the rails suspended in mid-air, while elsewhere landslides blocked parts of the track. Nothing daunted, Michael quickly determined that business would continue and launched a program of rebuilding to repair the damage.

Teamwork
Receiving the award from HRH Prince Michael of Kent, Michael York paid tribute to all those who had played a part in the restoration of the line: volunteers, staff, contractors, fundraisers, local residents and local authorities.

The Railway Revived
The Severn Valley Railway was successfully reopened throughout from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth at Easter 2008.
For more information on the Severn Valley Railway and its operations, look here.

More Awards ...
Preservationist of the Year
The winner of the previous year's award can be viewed here.

Young Preservationist of the Year
The Transport Trust also salutes younger members of the transport preservation movement who, despite their age, have already made a notable contribution. Look here to see who received the 2008 Young Preservationist of the Year Award from Prince Michael.