Leaves near the line? Not if Chris is on duty!

Beccles station was a hive of activity on Sunday as more than a dozen volunteers helped to clean it up.

The 15 volunteers were at Beccles station after they answered a rallying call from station adopter Chris Maddison.

Mr Maddison had organised the first of what he hopes will be weekly clean-up sessions to make the site a more welcoming sight for commuters and visitors to the town.

As there are no staff at the station, Mr Maddison, 23, has become a station adopter meaning he is responsible for keeping it clear of leaves, weeds and rubbish.

He also helps passengers by providing advice, reports any faults and has created a small haven for wildlife on the site.

Mr Maddison said Sunday’s clean-up was important as Beccles station was becoming a popular destination.

He said: “Beccles is increasingly being seen by people as a gateway to the Broads.

“I want to make the station more attractive to visitors and give them a good impression of the town.”

Mr Maddison said future clean-ups would be important as plans to introduce a Beccles loop on the East Suffolk line would see trains arriving every hour at the station instead of every two hours. Clean-ups will take pace at Beccles station every Sunday from 10am.

Mr Maddison will provide gloves and high visibility jackets but people must bring their own tools, although tools must not be petroleum or gas powered.

Volunteers will need high quality footwear, such as walking boots, and anyone aged under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

For further information call Mr Maddison on 01502 715970.