A RAIL firm is auctioning off sought-after Crewe Station signs to raise cash for a South Cheshire charity.

Avanti West Coast has donated the signs to be sold off in the Rail Aid campaign which is Sandbach-based Railway Children charity's week-long fundraising initiative (November 22 to 27) taking place later this month.

The artefacts are sure to draw interest from rail enthusiasts who have until Saturday, November 21 to lodge their bids.

The large station signs, measuring 1.98m x 56cm, come in two designs and were taken down earlier this year after many years use.

Rail Aid is a new fundraising mission, led by Railway Children, which aims to bring the best of the UK rail community to raise money to help vulnerable children whose lives have been impacted by coronavirus.

"The signs have helped welcome so many customers over the years, so we really wanted to find them good homes," said Karen Grimshaw, Station Manager for Avanti West Coast at Crewe. "If we can raise some money for such a fantastic cause at the same time then it is even better."

Across the rail industry, individuals and businesses will be taking part in a week of activities culminating in a live online show, celebrating achievements and featuring some of its key figures.

Railway Children Chief Executive Terina Keene said: "So many people have been hit hard by the effects of Covid-19 and that means children, both in the UK and overseas, are even more vulnerable to finding themselves on the street and in need of our support.

"The railway family has played such a key role during a time of national emergency and we really appreciate the support of Avanti West Coast."

The signs are expected to fetch in the region of £100 each and anyone interested in bidding should email [email protected] before the auction closes at midnight on Saturday, November 21.

Winning bidders will be notified the following Monday and the signs can be collected from Crewe station.

To find out more about Rail Aid go here.