PASSENGERS are being warned of “a lot of upheaval” in the next two to three years as refurbishment work is carried out at Keighley Railway Station.

The warning was issued at the annual general meeting of the Friends of Airedale Line.

Rod Tickner, giving a ‘station adopters’ report, said Keighley was due for “a reasonably large chunk of cash”.

Network Rail plans include a restoration of the station frontage.

“There will be a year of planning ­– with stakeholder involvement – and two years of construction work and implementation,” said Mr Tickner.

“By 2022, we should have a really good station.

“As part of the work I’m hopeful that the signage will be suitable for people living with dementia. There are examples of things that could be more helpful and better worded.

“There will be a lot of upheaval as the work is carried out, but the aim is to make the station a real gateway to the town.”

Mr Tickner reported that local railway history posters had been installed in the platform waiting rooms.

And two commemorative posters had been produced in memory of railway workers who served in the First World War.

Adopters presented reports on efforts carried out to improve each station and build community links.

Tribute was paid to them by Friends chairman Graham Mitchell.

“I’d like to thank the adopters who are all volunteers and perform the role for the love of their station – it’s appreciated,” he said.

Mr Mitchell said the Friends group was launched two years ago.

Its aims included supporting the adopters, acting as an umbrella organisation to raise common concerns about stations with train operator Northern, and providing a ‘vehicle’ for raising funds and seeking grants.

Mr Mitchell added: “During the year we have gained two new adopters – both confirmed in appointment by Northern – and I’m delighted that both are active on their stations.

“This means that every station on the Airedale line between Shipley and Skipton now has one or more adopters.”

The Friends were praised by Northern stakeholder manager Pete Myers, who was at the meeting.

“There’s some terrific work being done,” he said.