A RAILWAY station made world famous by songwriter Paul Simon celebrated its transformation this week.

Widnes North in Farnworth has a refurbished ticket office as part of a £90,000 facelift by Northern Rail.

Halton MP Derek Twigg said: “I have been lobbying for years to get this station refurbished.

“It is exceptionally well-used. It is a gateway to the borough.

“People’s first impressions are important.

“It is now much brighter and there are plans to extend the car park.”

American folk singer Paul Simon penned the words of ‘Homeward Bound’ on the platform, a historic moment recorded in a plaque.

The ticket office now has a low level window, within easy reach for the disabled, state-of-the-art lighting, refurbished flooring and new doors to the platform.

The outside of the station has been painted in the new livery of Northern Rail, white and blue, and fitted with new signs and posters.

Halton Clr Rob Polhill, board member for regeneration, said: “The station is much brighter and more welcoming for passengers.

“Hopefully, it will encourage more people to use the trains.

“We see rail as an important measure in helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions caused by cars.

“We are continuing to develop schemes to extend parking facilities at both Widnes North and Hough Green in partnership with Northern Rail, Network Rail and Merseytravel.

“It is difficult to encourage people to give up the comfort of their cars and requires a concerted effort by all partners to help identify and meet the needs of the travelling public.”