Volunteers’ hard work blooms with Gold award at Barnstaple station

Barnstaple Railway Station has received the prestigious Stations in Bloom Gold award, along with a special Judges' Award, for its commitment to sustainable practices and beautification efforts.

The awards were presented by Derek Beer, a top Britain in Bloom judge and chairman of the Blackmore Vale Community Rail Partnership, alongside Peter Williams, the customer and commercial director for South Western Railway.

Tim Steer, chair of the newly formalised group Friends of Barnstaple Railway Station noted the significant milestone of becoming an official organisation.

"Our railway station volunteers have been winning awards for Barnstaple for three years," Tim said. "The time has come to be a formally constitutionalised group. It gives me great joy to announce that Friends Of Barnstaple Railway Station is our official group name and that the award-winning work will continue."

He said the alignment between sustainable transport and sustainable planting at the station, celebrating its role as a critical point of entry and departure for North Devon.

"The Exeter to Barnstaple - North Devon line is constantly breaking records on passenger usage and it edges ever closer to 1 million users per annum. Our station is a gateway to North Devon and Torridge. It is your first and last impressions, so we want to make it a sight for you to remember," he added.

The commendation also drew praise from Barnstaple Town Council’s deputy mayor, Councillor Joanna Orange, who lauded the volunteers’ commitment to enhancing the station’s appearance and environmental impact.

"I want to say a big congratulations to the station volunteers and the amazing work they have done for us all here at our Railway Station," said Cllr Orange. "It's a brilliant achievement to have had your work recognised at this year's Stations in Bloom awards - and not just a Gold certified award but the Judges' Special Award and trophy too.

"It's a really important and worthwhile initiative, so it's great to see Barnstaple setting a strong example for our region and really showing that these sorts of sustainable, community-driven projects can make a real difference," she stated. She further encouraged local participation, praising the new "Friends of Barnstaple Railway Station" group and its annual volunteer membership scheme as “a great initiative and opportunity for even more people to get involved."

Ian Roome, MP for North Devon, added: “Your dedication and hard work have resulted in not only a Gold certified award but also the Judges Special certified award and trophy for your initiatives in recycling and creating sustainable planting areas at Barnstaple railway station," Mr Roome said. "It is truly inspiring to see how you have transformed redundant government property into vibrant and functional green spaces."

He also praised the Friends of Barnstaple Railway Station group for its newly adopted constitution and membership framework, viewing it as a path toward even greater community involvement.

“This development will undoubtedly strengthen your efforts and foster even greater community involvement,” Mr Roome said.

“Since winning your first award two years ago, your group has consistently set a high standard for excellence and innovation. I have no doubt that your continued efforts will inspire others and enhance the experience of all who visit Barnstaple railway station."