Arriva Trains Wales | DOUBLE BOOST FOR TREFFOREST STATIONS

DOUBLE BOOST FOR TREFFOREST STATIONS

Trefforest's railway stations are set to receive a boost thanks to two community-spirited locals.

Trefforest and Trefforest Estate stations are being 'adopted' under the Arriva Trains Wales 'Adopt a Station' scheme which involves communities in caring for and taking pride in their local railway station.

Josh Bliszko, from Pontypridd, is taking on Trefforest Estate Station after finding out about the station adoption scheme on the internet.

men and awards Josh, a sixth form student at Hawthorn Comprehensive School, is keen to help keep the station looking at its best to encourage more people to take to the rails: "I really enjoy using the train to get around and thought that by getting involved, and letting Arriva know if there are any issues to be tackled, more local people might be encouraged to use the station."

Trefforest Station is being adopted by another enthusiastic and community-spirited volunteer. Andy Abraham, from Cilfynydd, travels by train each day to Cardiff where he works with underprivileged children.

Andy said: "I read about the scheme and thought that it was a great way for people to help keep an eye on their local station. As a daily commuter from Trefforest it's quite easy for me to spot if any problems arise with litter or maintenance and I can give the station manager a call to ensure it's sorted quickly."

Wayne Cresswell, station manager for Arriva Trains Wales, said: "We are looking forward to working with both Josh and Andy on this project. It's all about encouraging local people to take an interest in their local station and we are grateful to them both for their time and enthusiasm.

He continued: "The adoptions will help us keep both railway stations in the best possible condition for local people and visitors alike. When local people get involved like this, it creates pride in the facilities and people don't want to see others littering and vandalising their station," he said.

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

The scheme has already been successful at over 100 stations throughout the Arriva Trains Wales network with the British Transport Police reporting a drop in anti-social behaviour at some stations.