Purbeck Community Rail Partnership (CRP) has partnered with the Arts Society for Dorset County for the ‘art in the station’ project at Dorchester South.

100 pieces of artwork were provided by three participating schools – Winterbourne Valley and Prince of Wales First Schools and St Mary’s CE Middle School in Puddletown – and were installed as vinyl decals in the two waiting shelters on the London-bound platform.

The artworks celebrate everything from local Dorset attractions to iconic national scenery and different modes of active travel, and formed part of the CRP’s wider activities under the Railway 200 banner.

To celebrate the project and the achievements of the young people, Purbeck CRP hosted a launch event on Wednesday 17 June, attended by students and teachers from the three schools, as well as representatives from the Arts Society, South Western Railway, and Friends of Dorchester South and West Stations.

The project was funded by South Western Railway with match funding provided by the Arts Society for Dorset County.

Steven Booth, Purbeck CRP officer, said: “What was so enjoyable about this project was the enthusiasm and collaboration from the local schools, and the coordination from the Arts Society to bring the teachers and other key personnel together to deliver the artwork.

“Community involvement in stations is actively encouraged and helps local people take a sense of pride and ownership with their contributions. This was a true community project making a difference to the local station environment and providing a legacy for all to see.”

Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from Purbeck CRP via their website.

Learn more about South Western Railway’s work in the community here.