The former Ormside railway station is situated on the Settle to Carlisle line which following its closure in the 1950s was used by Knowsley schools up until 2010, when it was so dilapidated it had to close as a station.

Following this, Knowsley Enterprise Academy, a local education charity, took up the challenge to restore the building to ensure its future was secured as a residential resource available to Knowsley schools and other voluntary groups who might benefit from a short educational stay in Cumbria.

Thanks to literally thousands of volunteers and a major investment by KEA, the station building and adjoining games room are now fully refurbished and refitted with new furniture and open to visitors.

Altbridge schools post 16 group have just became the first youngsters to stay there for nearly a decade. It has 28 beds with five bathrooms, a kitchen/diner and a separate games room.

To complement the facility, Knowsley Enterprise Academy has joined forces with Ormside Mill who are carrying out various outward bound activities and the group from Altbridge took part in abseiling, canoeing and other outdoor activities.

And Knowsley Enterprise Academy's now offering a free short stay to all Knowsley schools. Steve Dumbell, KEA chief executive said: “When Barry Gilfoyle and I first discussed revitalising the building it presented a major challenge. First, that we were still in the tight grips of the deepest recession since the 1930's, and secondly that it’s 100 miles away.

"We knew it was going to be a long haul however we made a commitment to offer the first 1000 places free. As most parents are requested to contribute to the majority if not all of the costs of their children’s school visits, we wanted to ensure those who struggle to make ends meet can send their children on a free residential to this fantastic place.”

Schools are now being contacted with this offer - see more at: https://www.qlocal.co.uk/knowsley/new....uk15cfTI.dpuf

What a wonderful achievement