THE care of Christchurch Train Station has been handed over to neuro-diverse young adults.

After 16 years of planting and caring for the station, Fred Neale has handed over his tools to the young adults from Autism Unlimited’s Futures programme.

Fred, former mayor and councillor of the Borough of Christchurch officially ‘adopted’ the station from South Western Trains in 2007.

The 76-year-old went on to lead a committee of trustees and volunteers to transform the station into a smart and welcoming gateway with an array of colourfully planted old whisky barrels and raised garden beds.

Now, Fred has decided to retire and has placed the responsibility in the hands of Christchurch-based charity Autism Unlimited.

The charity’s ‘Futures’ programme empowers neuro-diverse people aged 18-25 to fulfil their potential and become active within their communities.

Tilly Larment, programme manager, said: “I went to a conference and was talking to someone whose school had adopted a station under the Community Rail Project.

“We love gardening, horticulture and conservation at Futures, so we volunteered to help Fred at Christchurch Station.

“When we found out he wanted to retire, we jumped at the chance to take over this amazing community project.”

She continued: “It’s a big responsibility, but it’s also such a great opportunity to both learn and work as a team.

“We already have plans to renovate the existing tearoom, create a mural near the platform and transform another derelict room into a small café and a community bookshop.

“Fred will still be visiting us and advising us when needed and we are looking forward to making the station an even more welcoming place for people to use.”

Futures learner Alex Dredge said: “So far, we have been weeding and have done some planting. We will also be picking up some litter later. I am going to enjoy seeing our plants grow.”

Learner Lucas Murray, who is visually impaired agreed: “It varies what we do, but it’s interesting and we have lots of plans.

"I like learning how to care for the plants and also being on the station as the trains go by.”