STALYBRIDGE’S railway station is officially one of the best after winning a prestigious honour.
The Tameside facility made it a high five as it lifted the Chris Dale TravelWatch Award for Large Stations at the recent Cheshire Best Kept Stations ceremony.
And the work that has gone into Hyde Central was also honoured as Civic Mayor of Tameside, Cllr Shibley Alam, and her consort were in attendance.
Stalybridge railway station was described as ‘a historic main line station that has seen major improvements to track and signalling and electrification, matched by investment in bright, modern passenger facilities, including a Changing Places toilet, that makes it a pleasure to use.
‘However, its most well-known facility is the historic real ale Station Buffet that guarantees a good pint and cosy surroundings.
‘This makes the station a destination in its own right.’
Graham Meiklejohn, head of regional development, stakeholders and communities at TransPennine Express, which manages Stalybridge railway station, said: “We are delighted that Stalybridge station has been recognised in the Cheshire Best Kept Station Awards, with the success down to the hard work of the station team to create a welcoming environment for all customers.
“Chris Dale was renowned for his attention to detail to ensure the delivery of high-quality public transportation by operators and we are deeply honoured to have received an award in his name.”
John Hulme BEM, President and Founder of Cheshire Best Kept Stations, added: “Stalybridge receiving this honour would have meant a great deal to Chris Dale, in whose memory the award is given.
“I was fortunate to visit the station with him several times, even in the depths of winter, and I saw for myself how highly he regarded the welcome offered by the staff.
“He never missed the chance to spend time in the Station Buffet. Very well done, Stalybridge.”
Hyde Central won a CrossCountry Rising Star Award in recognition of work that has gone into the Great Norbury Street facility.
And the mural marking the legacy of Dr Ron Hill did nit escaped the judges.
In its citation, they said: “This station used to have a somewhat forlorn and forgotten appearance some way from the town centre.
“But it’s amazing what some determination and effort can achieve, with colourful artwork and heritage displays at platform level.
“Down at street level, the volunteers worked with the South East Manchester Community Rail Partnership and the local authority to improve street lighting between the town centre and the station.
“And just to make sure no-one forgets the station is there, it absolutely shouts its name with a gigantic mural, which also commemorates local hero athlete Ron Hill.”