Heritage bench restored to Plumley station

A beloved wooden bench has been restored to Plumley station, in the shape of a replica as a nod to the Mid-Cheshire Line’s heritage.

The handcrafted bench, which has been made to resemble seating that was removed during improvements at the station, has been given pride of place in the picturesque station’s shelter. 

With funding from Northern, passionate residents from the Mid Cheshire Rail User Group and local parish council commissioned a specialist joiner to meticulously recreate the bench.  

Working from a limited selection of images, the bench was lovingly crafted from sustainable hardwood, to emulate the original design. 

Rebecca Styles, Community and Sustainability Manager for Northern, said: “It’s important that we cherish heritage assets like the bench at Plumley. 

“We’re delighted to have been able to help get the bench re-instated - the heritage joiner we used is self-employed and grateful to have been chosen during these challenging and uncertain times. I look forward to going to see the bench at the station when things get back to normal.” 

The current seating, which the bench is replacing, will be removed and redistributed to other stations along the Northern network.  

Isobel Chetwood, Plumley resident, said: “The seating looks stunning – beautifully crafted and I’m sure will last for many years to come.  It is very much in keeping with a village railway station.”

John Oates, Chair of the Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership said: “We are delighted with this replica seating which Northern arranged to be made. It's beautifully made and looks just right in its natural wood colour.  Well done, Northern.”