A VOLUNTEER gardener is appealing for helpers to maintain the colourful flower and plant display at Johnstone Railway Station. 
Retired Gryffe High School teacher, Robert Sinclair, has been struggling to find helpers to look after the flowerbeds which cheer up many parts of the station. 
The 66-year-old is now the only remaining volunteer gardener, apart from his wife, who keeps the weeds down and plants the bedding in the areas around the station. 
The 'Adopt a Station' scheme, which was started in 2003 enables individuals or groups to adopt their local railway station and contribute to its use and welfare.
All adopters support the idea that their station is fundamental to their community and that an attractive station helps to promote the area. 
The work they put into making the station look attractive is for the benefit for all who use the station.
Robert, who lives in Elderslie, said: "Since I retired from teaching seven years ago my wife Linda, who had already joined another volunteer Steve Macintosh, encouraged me to come along.
"Steve started the scheme in Johnstone in 2008, my wife joined, then I began in 2009.
"However, Steve has since moved to England since last year hence the need for some more help.
"There are so many opportunities and volunteers do not need to be a gardening expert to get involved. 
"We can start you on small tasks and build things up when they become more confident.
"They are welcome to come any time, however I will be here on a Sunday usually from 10am to 2pm unless it is raining.
"It is also a very social hobby and you can talk to the public. I tend to volunteer 15 hours a week but any time contributed would be valuable."
Robert is calling out for between five and six volunteers who can either all work together on a project.
There are also opportunities for an individual to adopt a particular area.
Typical garden duties will include weeding and planting, summer bedding, cutting back shrubs, maintaining herbaceous borders and cutting grass.  
There are also hanging baskets, several barrels, the waiting room and store room to be kept tidy, as well as ensuring all areas are litter free.
Volunteers will also be required to purchase plants and compost which will be refunded.
Under Station Adopter Scheme the minimum commitment is an average of 2 hours per week excluding winter months
Robert said: "The volunteers have been encouraged and praised by the station users, receiving many donations of plants or bulbs over the years.
"Johnstone Credit Union also gave us £250 in 2015. Some of the other stations in Renfrewshire are looking for gardeners to volunteer too.
"Any volunteers need to be physically able and have sufficient knowledge to work on their own, but you can start slowly and build up your input as you gain experience.
"You don't need to know the names of plants, you can help pick out flowers though and bed them.
"People can take on a platform or area and develop it slowly.
"I've enjoyed doing it and used to do a bit of gardening in my own property before getting involved.
"I worked hard in teaching and needed something to keep me occupied and keep me active.
"I've certainly got the gardening bug now and am very enthusiastic about the work I do. 
"You can also help out by fundraising or donating bulbs.
"It is for the most part a rewarding activity, keeps you active and it is interesting  to meet the public.
"It is pleasing to see the gardens around the station steadily improve."
Robert will be working at the station on Sunday mornings and would welcome company. Plant and bulb donations are also welcome. 
Interested volunteers should contact staff at the Johnstone Railway station.