A project to restore Beccles railway station to its former glory has received a £5,000 boost after winning a national competition.

The station building has been in a poor condition for a number of years and, after extensive negotiations, it is being leased to a local community-based charity.

The charity is raising funds to refit the building, creating a community hub made up of a cafe, activity spaces, meeting rooms and office space, where any profits made will be given to future community projects.

Builders’ merchant Jewson received more than 2,000 entries into its Building Better Communities competition which aims to recognise projects which help build community spirit.

The station project was one of 14 chosen to receive a share of the £100,000 prize pot.

Christine Pinsent, chairman of the Beccles and District Regeneration Company which is managing the building, said: “We’re so pleased to have been chosen as a winner out of so many entries.

“With this contribution from Jewson, we can refit the station building, providing an improved facility for the local community and visitors to enjoy.

“It’s great to work in partnership with local companies too.”

David Fenton, marketing director at Jewson, said: “From over 2,000 entries we selected just 14 projects, so it’s a fantastic achievement for the winners and we can’t wait to see the positive effect the prize money will have.

“We’d also like to thank every single project that was involved in the Building Better Communities competition.”