Vandalism at railway station decreases thanks to artwork

The Friends group consists of eight people who volunteer to improve and maintain the station.

Mr Barrows said: “Before we started the group, vandalism on the station was pretty bad but since we started putting artwork on it seems to cut the vandalism down quite a lot.

“A lot of windows on the shelter were broken and fences kept getting broken down.

“Now, it’s a much better place to go and catch trains.”

Inspiration for the artwork came from local people who chose topics they felt represented their communities.

Fitzwilliam was built to provide housing for workers at the Fitzwilliam Main colliery, and named after its owners at the time, the Earls Fitzwilliam of Wentworth Woodhouse.

Network Rail customer and community manager Sandy Lynch said the company hoped the artwork would continue to deter vandalism.

She said: “This artwork brightens the station, is community focussed and encourages people catch the train.

“Trespass and vandalism delays trains unnecessarily, causing costly delays. This mural is not only beautiful, but hopefully helps more trains run on time.”

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