RAIL operator Northern – which runs services on the Airedale line – has spotlighted the efforts of green-fingered community groups which brighten stations on the network.

Nearly 80 per cent of the company’s stations are home to volunteer groups and station adoption programmes that plant floral displays, create art schemes, grow produce and work with people affected by mental health and other health issues.

Northern celebrated the work of the volunteers to coincide with National Allotment Week.

Carolyn Watson, the company’s director of stakeholder and community engagement, said: “We are pleased to be able to support so many volunteers.

“They do an amazing job creating these spaces for the communities along our network.

“On many of our stations there are planters and gardens where passengers can take away produce for free. And the green spaces can also provide a moment of tranquillity and help to brighten-up daily commutes for passengers.

“Gardening is great for our social, mental and physical wellbeing and we are proud to support and – where possible – get involved in so many of these community-led projects.”

For further information about how you can become involved as a station volunteer, visit northernrailway.co.uk/community.