BARNSTAPLE railway station has been awarded first place in the best kept station category as part of the Tarka Line Flowers Competition.

The competition, which rewards the efforts of volunteers who tend to stations along the Tarka line, is organised by the Tarka Rail Association and is funded partly by sponsorship from First Great Western.

Volunteer Janet Day picked up the award for her floral displays at Barnstaple station while Andy Hedges picked up the best wildlife conservation award for his work at Umberleigh station.

His restoration of the old concrete Umberleigh station sign and an outstanding display of roses helped him to win the accolade.

John Phillips, chairman of the Tarka Rail Association, said: "I should like to thank all those who give up their free time to make our stations attractive for passengers who I know very much appreciate the efforts made."