Community Rail Lancashire (CRL) organised, in partnership with the Lancashire Rail Ramblers, a celebration walk to mark two landmark events. First, it is 25 years since the first Community Rail Partnership was set up in Lancashire covering the West of Lancashire area and second to mark 25 years of Community Rail development in Lancashire.
Start of the walk @ Burscough Junction
Tuesday 12th May saw 17 people assemble at Burscough Junction station to take part in the walk. Ably led by Steve Coleman, who was supported by Stuart Leese, from the Lancashire Rail Ramblers the group walked from Burscough to Martin Mere, where they had a welcome tea break. Then on to Mere Sands Wood and Rufford. In all the walk was over 7 miles long with very mixed weather. Fortunately, the sun came out in the afternoon.
At Martin Mere
Speaking for the Lancashire Rail Ramblers, Steve Coleman said: “We had a very enjoyable day walking from Burscough Junction to Rufford today. It went well considering the gloomy start to the day and the range of walking abilities. It was a real team effort with everyone pulling together. The ladies from the Stations of Welcome group at Accrington station even broke into song along the way.”
For Community Rail Lancashire Shahiesta Iqbal added: “It was a great day and lovely to see everyone out supporting the event. The Stations of Welcome women absolutely loved the walk and were inspired by Steve and Stuart. It was another great Community Rail event that helped to break down barriers and show unity despite Lancashire’s ever-changing weather!”
One of the ladies commented that she had never walked so much in her life and felt it was one of her biggest achievements. Another said that despite living in Britain for over 30 years, this was the first time she had been to the West of Lancashire and looked forward to introducing it to her family.
To download a route of the walk click the link here: Burscough to Rufford – Walk on 12 May 2026
