GREENBANK and Acton Bridge railway stations have scooped awards at the 17th Cheshire Best Kept Stations Awards.

The ceremony at The Grange Theatre, Hartford, welcomed some 170 guests with Kulvinder Bassi, community rail team leader at the Department of Transport, presenting awards.

Greenbank station won the Cheshire West and Chester Award with Acton Bridge winning the Art Projects Award.

Graham Hallett from The Friends of Greenbank Station said: “Along with my colleagues Mark Goulborn and Nigel Nutt, we are thrilled that Greenbank station has been named the best kept station in Cheshire West. This was a compliment we were not expecting.

“I would like to thank all those in the area that have supported us at the station and the positive comments we receive all the time from the passengers using the station.”

Northwich Guardian:

The Friends of Acton Bridge Station said: "We are delighted with our award for the Art Project designed by the local play group and primary school.

"It brightens up the ticket office that was previously very unwelcoming and now it brings a smile to travellers and commuters as they pass through the station.

Northwich Guardian:

"Many thanks to all the volunteers who made this a success.

Rose Hill station in Marple was named Cheshire's Best Kept Station.

Guests included Lord Lieutenant for Cheshire David Briggs, along with 12 mayors from across the county including Northwich's Kevin Rimmer.

Cllr Rimmer said: “I am so pleased and proud that Greenbank Railway Station has been recognised at this important community event.

“This is all down to Graham, Mark and Nigel who are our unsung heroes in the community."

Northern were the 2019 lead sponsors of the awards evening, held on Tuesday, January 29.

Mark Barker, chairman of Cheshire Best Kept Stations, said: "The awards are a celebration and a thank you for all the volunteers and community groups who do so much to brighten up our stations in Cheshire."

John Oates, chairman of the Mid Cheshire Rail Users Association added: "Our local station staff and community support staff should also be applauded, as the industry is going through significant upheaval at the moment.”

See bestkeptstations.org.uk