A TRAIN operator is appealing for ten volunteers from the Thirsk area to support passengers at the town’s railway station on Sundays and some bank holidays.

Grand Central said it was looking for “friendly and energetic” people to enrol on its Station Ambassador programme, as it extended the award-winning scheme to Thirsk.

More than 30 station ambassadors work with Grand Central at stations including Hartlepool and Eaglescliffe to respond to passenger queries and provide them with a friendly welcome to towns along Grand Central’s routes.

In addition, they support station management by helping improve operational safety and efficiency stations.

In return, successful candidates will receive travel perks with Grand Central, as well as other benefits to be announced at a recruitment event at Rural Arts, on October 18, from 6pm.

The event is being run in collaboration with Thirsk Tourist Information, The World of James Herriot and Thirsk Yarnbombers.

Richard McClean, managing firector of Grand Central Rail, said the scheme was set to start in November.

He said: “For volunteering ambassadors, the programme presents a great way to contribute to the community, as well as learning and development opportunities for a career in the rail, travel or tourism sectors.”