Four Wirral Stations Honoured at Cheshire Best Kept Stations Awards 2026

Four Wirral stations have been recognised at this year’s Cheshire Best Kept Stations Awards, celebrating the dedication of volunteers and rail staff who help transform local stations.

Stations on the Merseyrail network in Hoylake, Meols, Bromborough and Bebington were all honoured at the awards evening, held at Crewe Alexandra Hybrid Lounge on Thursday 5 February. 

The event attracted a record 200 guests, with awards presented before twelve borough and town mayors by transport journalist and rail commentator Tony Miles.

Hoylake won the Wirral Award, while Meols claimed the In Bloom Award. 

Bromborough and Bebington were both Highly Commended in their respective categories.

Hoylake and Meols Among Winners at Cheshire Best Kept Stations Awards

Presenting the awards, Tony Miles praised the visible impact of community involvement across the region. 

He said: 

“While recently working to update an image bank of stations, I was especially struck by those where the community, alongside staff, had clearly made a real difference.

“There were flower beds, restored waiting rooms filled with pictures and historical artefacts, better information, and notices from the groups involved inviting others to come and join them. 

“A great many of those examples were in Cheshire. The dedication shown by volunteers across these stations in Cheshire is simply amazing.”

Hoylake station was recognised for its art deco architecture, complemented by distinctive planters featuring steam train and floral motifs. 

Platform beds are filled with shrubs and perennials, alongside a display celebrating the town’s golfing heritage. 

A photo montage highlights local landmarks, including the last Open Championship, while an illustrated map guides visitors to attractions such as the Waders Walk and Ebb and Flow artwork on the promenade.

The Friends of Hoylake and Meols in Bloom said: 

“We are incredibly proud of our volunteers at Hoylake and the community we support. 

“Receiving this recognition of our efforts is encouraging and promotes pride in place from all who visit our station.”

Meols was praised for its restored garden spaces. Overgrown beds were cleared while established rose bushes were preserved. 

“Eye of the Tiger” roses now greet passengers, alongside ornamental grasses and herbs. 

A bench planter made from recycled plastic adds to what judges described as a tapestry of colour.

The group added: 

“As volunteers, we appreciate what a privilege and joy it is to work on Meols station garden space, come rain or shine. 

“This award is a fabulous recognition of the work for all involved.”

Volunteers Praised for Transforming Wirral Railway Stations

Bebington’s Highly Commended award was welcomed by Dr George Lamb, Chair of Love Bebington, who said the team works hard year-round to maintain the station. 

Bromborough was also Highly Commended in the CrossCountry Rising Star category, marking its first award since the launch of the Love Our Railways initiative.

Chair of Cheshire Best Kept Stations, Mark Barker, told volunteers: 

“The care, commitment and pride you show make a tremendous difference, not only to the stations themselves but to the communities they serve.”