VOLUNTEERS are on track for a number of accolades after their efforts were recognised in a competition organised by the Association of Community Rail Partnerships, ACoRP.

Friends of Goostrey Railway Station (FOGS) has been shortlisted in three categories, but will have to wait until the gala dinner in Telford on October 3 to find out if it has won.

The group was shortlisted at gold level in the It’s Your Station category, the section for Most Enhanced Station Buildings and Surroundings and the Photo and Video competition.

In the Photo and Video section the group submitted a picture taken by Christina Burgess of two of its volunteers, Monica and Peter Robson, taking a break during a working party to enjoy the pleasant seating area on the Manchester platform.

To vote for the FOGS picture visit surveymonkey.co.uk/r/CRA19-pvc

The vote closes tomorrow, September 4.

This part of the station has been made more welcoming by tubs of flowering plants and railway memorabilia.

In the shortlisting for Most Enhanced Station Buildings and Surroundings, the FOGS submission comprised a summary and several photos and a more detailed description under the headings, Aims, What Happened and Results.

Christina Burgess, the group’s publicity officer, said: “There was much to write about, from gardening, sweeping, art displays, unique banners and conservation to the restoration of the water supply and the renovation of the iconic wooden building.”

In the It’s Your Station shortlisting FOGS achieved enough points to be placed in the gold band.

The group sent pictures and a detailed description under the headings of Gardening Achievement, Community Participation and Environmental Responsibility.

Christina added: “Two judges also visited Goostrey station, arriving appropriately by train.

“FOGS members were proud to tell them about our achievements, but the judges also wanted to know about the problems we faced and our plans for the future.

“FOGS has been shortlisted in previous years. In 2017 it was for the art displays by Goostrey Community Primary School in the platform shelter.

“The year after it was for Involving diverse groups of people in improving Goostrey station. Perhaps 2019 will be the year when we win an ACoRP award.

“To ensure that passengers are proud to use Goostrey station working parties continue on the second Sunday of each month, starting at 10am, and FOGS always welcome new volunteers.

“Currently they have no storeroom, so it would be best if helpers took tools such as brushes, spades, forks, loppers or secateurs.

“There will be a few spares available for those not able to bring their own.

“While working every volunteer must wear one of FOGS’ orange safety jackets. Orange is the specified railway safety colour, and yellow ones can confuse train drivers travelling at speed.

“No-one should work alone at the station in case there is an accident.”

For more information contact Mike Jarvis on 01477 533981 or visit friendsofgoostreystation.org