When local artist Debbie Goldsmith heard the good news, she couldn’t stop grinning!  Her application on behalf of the Friends of Goostrey Station had been successful.  The Community Fund of the National Lottery had awarded Goostrey Art Studio, where she is the inspirational leader, ten thousand pounds!

Debbie quickly gathered together a few members of Friends of Goostrey Station and some local children who had attended her workshops. They met for a group photo on platform one at Goostrey Station, next to the iconic building where the Art Studio is located.

Two years ago, after protracted negotiations, the Victorian wooden building was restored. The latest grant will be used to improve the internal facilities. Tables, chairs and shelves have been generously donated by the Shopfitting Warehouse and the Cygnet Club, Congleton. But currently the building has no toilets or wash basins. In 2015, Friends of Goostrey Station paid United Utilities to reconnect the water supply by installing a pipe from the road to a lockable tap outside the station building. The water has helped to keep displays of flowering plants around the station healthy throughout the year.  Now the supply needs to be extended inside the building so sanitary ware can be fitted.

Rainbows, Brownies, Beavers and Cubs and their adult leaders have already enjoyed art workshops at the not-for-profit studio.  Activities have included creating animal masks and making prints of leaves and birds. There’s a car park at the station, but for a greener option participants can walk, cycle or (like the Rainbows from Holmes Chapel) travel by train.  If you’re interested in attending a workshop or bringing a group to Goostrey Art Studio, please contact Debbie Goldsmith on deborahgoldsmith@me.com .