MERSEYRAIL staff swapped the underground for the outdoors this week as they volunteered at a Liverpool hospital.

Eight volunteers from the network spent the day tidying a new memorial garden and play area which will benefit those visiting Liverpool Women’s Hospital.

Lisa Masters, fundraising manager at Liverpool Women’s, said: “We’re extremely grateful to the volunteers from Merseyrail who gave up their own time to come and help out with the creating of what we hope will be a lovely area for our women and their families to come and enjoy some fresh air.

“The memorial garden will also enable women and families who have suffered a bereavement to escape from the hospital environment and have some time to themselves.”

The memorial garden and play area will officially be opened by the Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside and the Lord Mayor of Liverpool on the September 21.

The project has been funded by a £12,000 grant from Tesco’s Bags of Help after shoppers voted it as their chosen charity project.

Andy Parry, head of engagement and reward at Merseyrail, said: “It was great to support the Kitty in the building of this memorial garden for a really worthwhile cause.

“We look forward to seeing the finished garden and hope that it provides comfort for families who will use it for many years to come.”