STRANGER Things star Millie Bobby Brown and Superman actor Henry Cavill were in Kidderminster for three days last year filming Netflix's hit new Sherlock Holmes-inspired movie, Enola Holmes.
Eagle-eyed viewers may have already spotted the Severn Valley Railway stations at Kidderminster and Arley in the movie, which is based on a spin-off series of novels about the detective's younger sister.
Kidderminster Station became Basilwether Station, with parts of the concourse repainted maroon, while the buildings at Arley were painted green and the station renamed Ferndell.
Filming took place last July under extremely tight security and The Shuttle reported at the time how curious Wyre Forest residents took to social media to speculate after spotting trailers, film crews and a helicopter flying over the historic railway.
Some readers even guessed that a new Sherlock Holmes film could be the source of the commotion, after noticing names on the side of vehicles linked to characters from the books.
Duncan Ballard, the SVR's contracts manager, made arrangements for the production company and was lucky enough to get close to all the action.
He said: "We were sworn to secrecy about the whole project, although it caused quite a stir when the film crew was here.
"It was exciting to see the stations transformed into fictional locations for the film. Although they look a little different on camera, they are clearly recognisable as ours.
"The production company chose to use locomotive 2857 because it had exactly the look they were after, and our toplight carriages also fitted in well with their plans.
“Catching a glimpse of the actors was definitely a thrill. The SVR has hosted many film and TV crews over the years, but you can’t help being impressed when so many top Hollywood stars come to Kidderminster!”
The film showcases steam locomotive No 2857 and several vintage carriages which are currently in use on the railway as part of regular passenger services.
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Helen Smith, general manager of the SVR, said: “Appearing in such a high profile film is a great boost for us, and it’s certainly attracting visitors who want to see the locations and rolling stock that were used in the movie.
"I highly recommend the film to anyone who loves a great adventure story, and especially those who love to see heritage trains in action.
"I must admit to closing my eyes in one scene where one of our precious carriages appears to suffer some serious damage, and all I can say is thank goodness for special effects!”
The railway is operating at weekends and throughout half term week in October, and tickets can be booked at svr.co.uk. Arley station, which is featured in the film, is currently closed to the public, but can be seen by passengers as they travel through.
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