PADGATE and Warrington Bank Quay railway stations have been named among Cheshire's Best kept stations.

The 17th annual Cheshire Best Kept Stations Awards evening saw Padgate Station bag the Halton and Warrington title for the second year running while Bank Quay was highly commended for the TravelWatch north west award.

The evening was attended by David Briggs, Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Cheshire, and the Mayor of Warrington, Cllr Wendy Johnson.

Mr Briggs praised the station volunteers across Cheshire who dedicate considerable time to the county and said they were an inspiration to all.

Bob Mclaughlin, from the Friends of Padgate Station, said: "It is always a delight to be acknowledged for the volunteer work carried out all year round to try to ensure rail passengers can enjoy a better experience whilst waiting for their train.

"It is also a massive boost to moral for volunteers to receive an award in recognition of the work carried out and for plans going forward."

On announcing the awards, Mark Barker, chair of Cheshire Best Kept Stations said: "Tonight's awards evening is a celebration and a thank you for all the volunteers and community groups who do so much to brighten up our stations in Cheshire.

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"You are all winners!

"Whether or not you pick up an award tonight, this is a big thank you to you all. You deserve it.

"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.