A NEW peace and reflection garden has now been officially opened at Greenbank Railway Station.

The green area has been brought to life by the Friends of Greenbank Station group and is tasked with honouring all those lost in war and conflict.

A special dedication ceremony was held in the garden led by Reverend Dimitri Aldridge of Christ Church Greenbank and attended by armed forces veterans and Royal British Legion representatives.

And Reverend Aldridge believes the garden is the perfect way to honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country

“It has been a privilege to dedicate this garden to those lost in war and conflict,” he said.

“Our church is rather unique in that we are based in the Station House of an operational railway station and we now have our own Garden of Peace and Reflection that can honour those that went to war and did not return.

“It is great that we have such fine neighbours as the Friends of Greenbank Station.”

The dedication ceremony was also attended by Northwich mayor Kevin Rimmer, who is the town councillor for Greenbank.

He added: “I am extremely proud of this garden and the group that have worked so hard in bringing the garden back to life again.

“Whether you are off on the train or returning home to Greenbank, you will now have the opportunity to spend a few moments reflecting on those that went before us and gave their lives in war and conflict.

“The garden, with its lovely colourful plants, has also brightened up the station and many thanks must go to all in the community that have been involved in this project.”

Graham Hallett, from The Friends of Greenbank Station, praised the opening of the garden, which has come to fruition thanks to hard work from a number of local organisations.

“We all know somebody, whether it be family or friends, who has been lost in action and we hope that this garden allows them to reflect on their loss and look forward to peace in our world,” he commented.

This was echoed by John Hulme, vice chairman of the Mid Cheshire Rail Users Association, who stated that it is ‘absolutely fantastic’ to once again have a station garden at Greenbank.