Twelve railway stations across the Northern network have been recognised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) at their prestigious ‘Britain in Bloom’ Awards.

Stations recognised as ‘Outstanding’ by the UK’s leading garden charity include Community Rail Network members Alderley Edge (Cheshire), Hindley (Greater Manchester), St Annes on the Sea (Lancashire), and Hale (Greater Manchester), as well as other Northern stations Altrincham (Greater Manchester), Croston (Lancashire), Leyland (Lancashire), Lytham (Lancashire), and Wilmslow (Cheshire).

The team at Chorley (Lancashire) was recognised for their display outside the station – which picked up a ‘Gold’ award in the ‘Best Small City’ category – while those at Knutsford (Cheshire) and Squires Gates (Lancashire) stations were also recognised with ‘Thriving’ certificates.

Special recognition went to Community Rail Network members the Friends of St Annes Station, who picked up a special award for achieving the coveted ‘Outstanding’ certification for the past five consecutive years.

Craig Harrop, Regional Director for Northern, said: “All credit to the volunteers across our network that go above and beyond to make the floral displays at our stations truly ‘award winning’.

“Their hard work and that of our community teams not only enhances the aesthetics of our stations, but also strengthens community relationships and collaboration. This recognition by the RHS is a testament to the power of collective action in addressing local issues and building stronger, united communities.”

For more information about the ‘Britain in Bloom’ awards, visit the RHS website.