Hard-working Oswaldtwistle residents have been praised for their work on improving the Church and Oswaldtwistle station.
Community Rail Lancashire is spotlighting some of the best train stations in Lancashire to highlight the incredible work of volunteer groups.
The work volunteers do to keep the Church and Oswaldtwistle station looking beautiful and encourage a sense of pride amongst visitors and the local community has been picked first in the Spotlight on Stations series.
This busy East Lancashire line station was adopted six years ago by The Rotary Club and over these years a lot of hard work has made it a place the community can once again take pride in.
From February to October, volunteers worked hard every weekend to maintain the station, tending to flower tubs, picking up litter, sweeping the station and ensuring all signage is in place.
Michael Jackson, a volunteer at Church and Oswaldtwistle station said:
“Our team of volunteers have made a huge difference to the station at Church and Oswaldtwistle.
"We meet every Saturday to keep the station looking tidy, brushing up debris, planting, watering, and caring for all the flowers.
"None of this would be possible without the hard work and commitment from our amazing volunteers, who give up their spare time to make our station beautiful for all.
"We are always looking for new volunteers, so if you want to join our amazing group, just get in contact.”
Some of the recent projects volunteers have carried out include clearing the front of the station of weeds and saplings and putting down five tonnes of stone chippings.
They’ve spent time painting the subway and fixing the wire meshing to prevent pigeons from roosting in the bridge as well as caring for and planting seven planters each year with either tulips, daffodils, or begonias, depending on the season.
The volunteers also take care of the model engine and carriages on the Colne platform which need regular painting and are planted annually with begonias.
The hard work, care, and consideration of the volunteers at this station has made a huge difference, by creating a beautiful, welcoming environment for the local community, visitors and commuters to enjoy.
Richard Watts, Chair of Community Rail Lancashire added: “Stations are the gateway to the local community and keeping them looking at their best is very important. Across Lancashire, many volunteers do just that by creating lovely floral displays and keeping the stations looking tidy and welcoming. We couldn’t do it without them.
"The Spotlight on Stations series is a great opportunity to thank all the volunteers, and showcase their hard work and achievements while encouraging others to join.
"These groups offer a great opportunity to meet new people and make a difference in your local area. Get in touch today, if you want any more information.”
Would you like to put something back into the community? Do you have green fingers, like painting or simply want to get out of the house and meet new people? If so, get in touch.
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