Vandals have destroyed part of a display at Guide Bridge station which volunteers had arranged for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

They also damaged several planters which had been set out on the platform to add a splash of summer colour for passengers and staff.  

The wreckage was discovered on Sunday morning - just a day after the Friends of Guide Bridge Station and Woodhead Railway Heritage Group had proudly welcomed St Peter’s ward Cllr Joyce Bowerman to see the improvements they have recently made to the station.

Andy Kettle, who chairs both groups, told the Reporter: “This is so demoralising and upsetting for our volunteers who have spent countless hours of their free time to create and nurture these planters, not forgetting the expenditure lost as well.

“We do know that there are CCTV cameras located at the station and have raised this with Northern Trains Ltd to see if the culprits are on camera. 

“We will take further action against anyone who has been recognised on the CCTV footage.”

VISIT: Ashton St Peter’s Councillor Joyce Bowerman toured improvements before the vandalism.

He added that the volunteers were determined to rebuild the display and get new planters in place ready for the Jubilee celebrations next week. 

During Saturday’s visit Andy and his colleagues updated Cllr Bowerman on their plans for a railway heritage museum and community space on the Glossop-bound platform - due to open as soon as the lease has been finalised. 

Offers of help or support are welcome - please contact woodheadgroup@gmail.com 

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