EARLESTOWN train station has been awarded a heritage plaque to celebrate its transport history.

The station is one of the oldest in the world and was granted the Red Wheel Heritage Plaque by National Transport Trust.

The Grade II listed building dates back to the 1830s and is known as the first 'triangular' junction in the world.

Dr Barrie Pennington, a member of the Trust and Chair of St Helens Borough of Culture Heritage Sub-Group, said: “I am delighted that the Trust recognises Earlestown Station as a significant contributor to the story of the Industrial Revolution.

"This award is another significant step in the town's bid for UNESCO's much coveted World Heritage Status for the Sankey Canal and Viaduct.

"It is important that UNESCO is fully confident that St Helens takes its culture and heritage seriously and that the management and preservation of its historical sites is in safe hands for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations."

The plaque has been installed on Platform two with an unveiling ceremony to be arranged.

The award is the latest plaque to be bestowed in the area, with both Sankey Viaduct and Sankey Canal receiving their Red Wheel Heritage Plaque in April.

READ > The Red Wheel plaques that recognise structure's place in the history books

The National Transport Trust is a registered charity founded in 1965 and is the only charity dedicated to the preservation of transport and its infrastructure in Britain.

To see what other heritage sites have received the plaque, visit https://www.nationaltransporttrust.org.uk/red-wheels/latest-red-wheels.