The Friends of Handforth Station (FoHS) celebrated their 25th anniversary with a special gala event this week.
FoHS was the very first ‘Station Friends’ group, formed in November 1996 by local campaigners including Mike Bishop and Steve Nash.
Those in attendance represented many of the groups that have contributed to the success of the station today. They included local support groups like DSN, the Seashell Trust, and Time Out Group, as well as representatives from Handforth Town Council, local Rotarians, Handforth Library, Handforth Scouts and many more.
Representatives from the rail industry also joined the event at Handforth Youth Centre, including from Network Rail, Northern, and Community Rail Network.
During the evening, directors from Network Rail and Northern unveiled an artistic screen commemorating the Friends’ first 25 years. This artwork, designed by FoHS lead artist Paul Pickford working with local schools and groups, is the first of several planned enhancements to the stations’ step-free access works.
Mike Bishop, president of FoHS, said: “Art contributes distinction and visual enrichment, and is a tangible expression of quality and care. We shall be mounting the new screen on the concourse soon, where we expect it to delight station users for the next 25 years.”
On the gala itself, he added: “Unfortunately COVID-19 meant that some people couldn’t attend – for example our twin ‘Friends of Malahide Station’ in Ireland couldn’t join us. We were, however, delighted at the large turnout for what was a very enjoyable evening.”
Jenny Barnes, chair of FoHS, added: “It is a delight to volunteer with such a fun-loving group of friends, who enjoy making a positive impact on such an important space within our community. From gardening through timetable consultation to lobbying for step-free access, friends’ groups very successfully connect communities with the rail industry.
“Our founding treasurer, Steve Nash, sadly passed away three years ago, but the inspirational achievements of himself, Mike Bishop and the other founders of FoHS have paved the way to show what can be achieved by a capable and enthusiastic friends network.”
FoHS are keen to welcome new members, and anyone interested in joining can find out more at www.handforthstation.org.uk/
