A 'FRIENDS' group is looking to launch at Northwich Station now the ticket office rebuild has been completed.

The Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership (MCCRP) is now appealing for volunteers to help turn the town's station into a welcoming space.

Various 'Friends of' groups at other stations have carried out gardening, put up artwork on platforms, and held stalls and other events in their communities.

Anyone interested is asked to attend a volunteer safety briefing and information session on the Manchester-bound platform (Station house side) at 10am on February 7.

Rebecca Styles, the regional communities and sustainability manager for train operator Northern, will lead the session for those interested in setting up a 'friends' group.

A MCCRP spokeswoman said: "MCCRP works in partnership with Northern to encourage volunteering at stations along the Mid Cheshire Line, of which Northwich is one.

"Some of the groups' activities include gardening, putting up platform art, looking after community noticeboards, creating wildlife friendly habitats, and holding stalls and other events in their local communities.

Northwich Guardian: The original Northwich station clockThe original Northwich station clock (Image: MCCRP)

"All the stations with an active friends’ group are also entered into the annual Cheshire Best Kept Stations competition.

"In previous years, Northwich won awards for the platform side rose garden.

"Volunteering is a great way to meet other people, get fresh air and exercise and benefit your local community.

"Transforming stations into friendly welcoming spaces has been shown to decrease antisocial behavior on stations which encourages greater use of trains-one of the most eco-friendly modes of transport."

Those interested in volunteering can book a place at the briefing by contacting the community rail officer on contact@midcheshirerail.org.uk.

For more information about MCCRP and community rail in your area, visit midcheshirerail.org.uk.