GOOSTREY took home a top prize at the Cheshire Best Kept Stations awards, with Knutsford and Holmes Chapel highly commended.

The three railway stations enjoyed success at the awards' 17th annual ceremony, held at The Grange Theatre, Hartford, on Tuesday, January 28.

Goostrey station won the ACoRP Campaign Awards, with Knutsford station highly commended as a best kept station in Cheshire East and Holmes Chapel highly commended for the Morris Homes Community Award.

Craig Sidebotham, chairman of The Friends of Goostrey Station (FOGS), said: “We are delighted.

Knutsford Guardian:

"The renovation of the former ticket office at Goostrey is the result of seven years of patient negotiation by FOGS members, in person and via email, with Network Rail, Northern and The Railway Heritage Trust.

“In the future, the restored building will provide opportunities for business and exhibitions.”

The Awards were presented before 170 guests by Mr Kulvinder Bassi, community rail team leader at the Department for Transport.

Among the guests were Lord Lieutenant David Briggs and twelve mayors from across Cheshire including Knutsford's Andrew Malloy.

Knutsford Guardian:

Cllr Malloy said: "With Knutsford being one the busiest stations on the Mid Cheshire line, it's great to see the wonderful work of the staff at the station and volunteers such as Knutsford in Bloom continuing to be recognised.

“Let's face it, using public transport is not always the greatest experience, but to be able to do this in a pleasant atmosphere and surroundings with planting and displays, at least the experience can be made as pleasant as possible.

“Well done to all involved at the station for their hard work, I encourage more to get involved at their local station, helping to enhance the community experience for local residents, and visitors alike."

Knutsford Guardian:

The DfT's Mr Bassi paid thanks to all the volunteers making a difference at their local station.

Mark Barker, chairman of Cheshire Best Kept Stations, told nominees on the night: "You are all winners – whether or not you pick up an award tonight, this is a big thank you to you all.

"We can celebrate something to be truly proud of at so many of our Cheshire stations. We have seen some truly excellent work from volunteers and staff at stations right across Cheshire.”

Rose Hill railway station in Marple was named Cheshire’s Best Kept Station 2019, with the awards evening sponsored by Northern.