THE Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall were greeted by an excited crowd at Kidderminster Severn Valley Railway station on a bright and cheerful early summer afternoon.

Their visit on Tuesday was to celebrate the re-opening of the full 16-mile line between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth following last year's devastating storm and flood damage.

The couple were told about the £3.5 million spent reconstructing the popular tourist railway, parts of which were washed away by flash floods almost a year ago to the day, on June 19.

A collection of classic cars, usually on show during special transport gala events at the railway, were lined up to greet the royal visitors - one for every decade from the 20s to the 60s.

After talking to people in the crowds the couple went through to the ticket office where they were presented with complimentary tickets for the trip.

Mary Tillott, 75, of Kidderminster, a volunteer for almost 25 years who also works in the offices of the railway, was introduced to the prince.

She explained that she "had the responsibility to keep things moving if the stationmaster was not around".

In the booking hall the prince was invited to unveil a plaque, while the Duchess was presented with a bouquet by Anna Leach, the ten-year-old daughter of the SVR marketing manager John Leach, who was among a group of flag-waving youngsters from Bayton Primary School.

Train owners' representatives were also on hand to greet the couple and presented the prince with a replica of steam locomotive Princess Elizabeth No 6201 which was on loan in case of breakdowns.

Before boarding the train to travel to Bewdley the prince asked well-wishers if they were "all steam enthusiasts" and told them it was "important to keep the heritage railway going".

Click here to see a gallery of pictures from the royal visit.