Colourful and uplifting are words rarely used to describe Garston Train Station.

A new project involving the area’s school children, however, aims to re-invent the station’s drab and dreary platform.

Participants in a community art day, held at the station between 11am and 4pm today, helped put the finishing touches to 15 brightly coloured canvasses and wooden figures, which will soon be displayed at the station.

Organised by charity Groundwork Hertfordshire, with funding from Watford Borough Council and the Abbey Line Community Rail Partnership, the project will utilise the combined artistic skills of pupils from Francis Combe and Berrygrove schools.

John Gunner, from the rail partnership, explained how the scheme would not only brighten up passengers’ days but could also cut petty vandalism – currently rife at the station.

He said: “It’s about making the station a more welcoming place for everyone. At the moment it’s pretty grim and can be quite intimidating. When somewhere looks uncared for then people don’t care for it. Hopefully this project will give the community a bit more pride in their station.”

Mr Gunner added that there was anecdotal evidence to suggest children’s artwork can reduce graffiti. Even vandals, he explained, will not deface the work of younger children.

Thirteen-year-old Francis Combe student Ben Affleck, who painted a train passing through a wall, was one of the artists whose work was chosen for the site by community artist Jody Ameneyro.

He said: “I only live around the corner so know he station well. It’s pretty horrible at the moment but hopefully this will brighten it up.”

Michelle Brodie, of Groundwork Hertfordshire, concluded: “This project will enable the people of Garston to have a sense of pride in where they live and make them feel like they can contribute to their local community in a positive way”.