A new eye-catching artwork depicting a steam train at the station platform with people in 1930s period costume has gone on display in the foyer of Bishopstone Station.

The painting is the work of semi-retired professional artist Andrew Dandridge, who is now a director and volunteer with the Friends of Bishopstone Station.

The 8ft by 4ft painting – the biggest Andrew has ever undertaken – is based on a photo he took at the ‘Seaford 150’ event in June 2014, when steam trains travelled on the route to mark 150 years since the railway line was extended from Newhaven to Bishopstone and Seaford.

Andrew said: “The photo was the perfect foundation for what I wanted to do. I modified the two 1930s figures to present a mixture of modern day and art deco.

“I wanted people to walk through the station, for the painting to hit them in the eyes, and go ‘wow!’. I’ve had so many nice comments about it from people, who say how much they appreciate and enjoy what we are doing with the station.”

Norman Baker, chair of the Sussex Downs Line CRP, said: “The painting is a fantastic addition to Bishopstone Station and shows the value of community engagement, in particular from Andrew Dandridge and his great artwork.

“Bishopstone Station is looking much brighter than it did even a year ago. It’s all change at Bishopstone.”

Bishopstone Community Hub was opened in the Old Parcel Room at the station in November 2022 after a five-year campaign led by the Friends of Bishopstone Station. The group of dedicated volunteers worked with Southern Railway, Network Rail, the Department for Transport, Railway Heritage Trust, Community Rail Network and Southeast Communities Rail Partnership to secure funding and additional support for the renovation project. The thriving community hub now hosts talks, events, classes and social gatherings for the whole community.

Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from the Friends of Bishopstone Station via their website.