Press releases

The station adoption group at Borth railway station has collected the Network Rail Environment Award for ‘Community Partnership’ in 2007. 

Representing the group with Arriva Trains Wales at the prestigious awards in London’s Natural History Museum were George and Jo Romary, John Toler and Llinos Jones.

The Awards highlight the very best in environmental practice across the railway industry. Since 2000 Network Rail has recognised organisations and individuals that deliver the highest standards in reducing the impact of railway operations on the environment, thereby improving the areas on and around the network.

Presenting the award to George and John, Network Rail chairman Ian McAllister commended the station murals project, which has seen the community help transform the station with colourful artwork depicting local scenery and the creation of a station garden.  The murals depict the four elements of earth, wind, fire and water in and around Borth, including a fiery autumn sunset and the beach on a sunny spring day.

The efforts of the group in working with pupils from Ysgol Craig yr Wylfa were also recognised as a key activity in engaging with young people.

George Romary, said: “It’s absolutely wonderful to receive a national award on behalf of everyone who has helped with the project.  We wanted to do something positive to put the station back at the heart of the village and everybody has pulled together to help improve its appearance.”

He continued: “We now have a new found respect and pride in this important facility for the community.  The enthusiasm of local people has been overwhelming and this award is wonderful recognition for all their hard work.”

Tony O’Donovan, station manager for the Cambrian Line, said: “We are really delighted that the adoption team’s efforts to help us care for the station have been recognised like this.  

“The community spirit and determination shown by the group to ensure that the station provides a welcoming gateway to Borth for passengers is something that we are extremely proud of and look forward to developing further in the future.”

More than 150 of Arriva Trains Wales’ 190 unstaffed stations have been adopted by local volunteers. 

Station adopters carry out regular spot checks relating to the tidiness and cleanliness of the station, in addition to the cleaning and maintenance undertaken by Arriva Trains Wales.  Any issues that may need addressing are then passed on to the local station manager.  In return for their efforts, adopters receive travel vouchers for use on the national rail network.