A COUPLE who have lovingly transformed a formerly “neglected” train station are set to retire after almost a decade.

Paul and Kathrine Haworth are set to leave Burnham after eight years of dedicated service to the railway station.

The couple ‘adopted’ Burnham station in 2011, taking the time to completely transform the station gardens into a “real community centrepiece”.

They have taken the decision to move away to be closer to their family.

Greater Anglia’s community engagement manager, Alan Neville, who runs the station adoption scheme, thanked Mr and Mrs Haworth for their time and commitment to the station.

He said: “Paul and Kathrine have worked closely with us over the years to make Burnham station a welcoming place for their community.

“They have suggested improvements, promoted the railway to residents and even created a leaflet of walks from the station.”

Throughout their time, the couple have tried to create a ‘tropical’ appearance for the gardens within the station.

Last year, they received the recognition their hard work deserved, taking home the prestigious prize for Best Staffed Station at Greater Anglia’s station adopter awards.

Mr Neville added: “Their dedication has been breath-taking and I’d like to thank them for everything they have done over the years to make Burnham station a lovely place to visit.

“They will be sorely missed.”

The village’s newly formed ‘Green Spaces’ group will take over the care of the station gardens and continue to involve the nearby pre-school in gardening activities.