Volunteers broke new ground at Brandon railway station when the first steps were taken to reclaim an important piece of wasteland.

Volunteers broke new ground at Brandon railway station when the first steps were taken to reclaim an important piece of wasteland.

Since 2006 the Friends of Brandon Station (FOBS) have tidied the station and the open area, opposite the Cambridge platform, which was once the site of sidings and a goods shed, has long been a target for improvement.

“This is the first site of Brandon for many passengers,” said Stephen Dean, FOBS chairman.

“It should be given the impression that the station is being looked after.”

The initiative is one of a number of community projects which Network Rail, which owns the land, is promoting around the country. All volunteers were given a safety briefing and issued with high-visibility jackets.

The work began by clearing the vegetation and litter picking, including lorry tyres and pallets.

Project leader Tony Wojtasz directed a team led by Paul Lamboll who gave his free time in addition to his full time job at SP Landscpaping of Brandon, who lent their equipment. Mr Wojtasz was helped by his son Harry, the youngest member of FOBS, and four other volunteers.

The area cleared was nearest the car park and the other end, near the level crossing, will also be cleared at a later date.

FOBS would also like to renovate the station building and although they have been promised the lease, cannot take it up until they have raised �3,800 to insure it. To date �1,500 has been promised.

Mr Dean said: “Membership of FOBS is �5 per year and the more people who show their support the easier it will be to persuade the railway companies and local authorities that Brandon Station is a valuable asset to be developed.”

To get in touch with FOBS email stephendean@deanimusic.co.uk.