THE Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership (CRP) has achieved government accreditation for its high standards.

The Mid Cheshire Line connects Chester with Manchester via Northwich, Knutsford and Altrincham and the CRP is the organisation which provides the link between communities on the line and the rail industry.

Its 'gold standard' accreditation from Department of Transport confirms it operates to high standards of governance and financial proprietary and is a suitable entity for receiving public funds.

John Hulme, a Ddirector of the Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership said: "The CRP is delighted to have been accepted for accreditation from the Department of Transport.

"There are around 60 CRPs in the country, of which just over half are accredited.

"Because accreditation brings with it access to government funding, this makes our work as a voice for the community supporting social and economic development well placed.

"I especially thank Sarah Morgan, our Community Rail Officer, for her efforts in achieving this gold standard."

Sarah Morgan, the Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership Officer, added: "These are exciting times for the Mid Cheshire Line and the Community Rail Partnership as we look forward to opening up the railways to travel post pandemic.

"Our volunteer groups are starting to return to their station projects and the CRP is actively looking at projects with Knutsford and Northwich Town Councils and other parish councils along the line.

"Our accreditation confirms the community-facing role the CRP will play locally, and whilst our plans promote sustainable, healthy and accessible travel, we are also looking at ways of bringing communities together and supporting diversity and inclusion.

"The CRP is keen to look at opportunities for individuals to volunteer on railway linked projects, especially those socially isolated, so that we can provide them with new life skills and a purpose in the community.

"My thanks go to the board members and local stakeholders of the CRP for the support given in achieving accreditation."

For more information about the Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership, visit midcheshirerail.org.uk and follow on Twitter @CrpMid and Instagram @midcheshirecrp