EAST Lancashire's main train operator is looking for volunteers to take care of a suburban station in Blackburn and three more in Burnley.

Northern is seeking 'adopters' prepared to devote some of their free time to helping make the platforms and surrounding area look their best.

The firm - which runs the East Lancashire Line from Preston through Blackburn, Accrington, Burnley and Nelson to Colne as well as services to Clitheroe and Manchester - already has hundreds of volunteers who have adopted unmanned stations and work with its staff to keep them tidy and well presented.

Now it is seeking eight more.

It wants volunteers to look after Burnley Barracks, Burnley Central, Rose Grove station in the town, and Pleasington in Blackburn.

The firm also wants people to take care of Buckshaw Parkway, Euxton Balshaw Lane, Hall I' Th' Wood, and Upholland.

Chris Jackson, Northern's regional director, said: “Station adopters provide a vital link between Northern and the communities we serve, and they all do fantastic work at our stations, providing the best possible environment for our customers and local people alike.

“We’re very fortunate in the north to have so many people who care so deeply about the railway and I’m incredibly grateful for all the time they donate and all the hard work that makes such a difference to the station environment.

“Many of our stations have active adopters and ‘Friends of’ groups, but some don’t and we’re looking for community volunteers who are willing to give their time to help us make a difference for their community.”