LOTTERY bosses have approved a £690,000 grant to restore Richmond Station.

The Heritage Lottery Fund money will help volunteers transform the building into a community and business centre.

The cash was set aside for the Richmondshire Building Preservation Trust (RBPT) last year.

But lottery chiefs only announced the money was secure on Friday.

Ian Hepworth, trustee for the RBPT, said: "There is a tremendous amount of effort that goes into compiling a successful application when a project is requesting £690,000.

"So we are delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund have given the thumbs-up to our restoration plans for Richmond Station."

Fiona Spiers, regional manager for the Heritage Lottery Fund, said: "The fund is dedicated to opening up and maximising the use of heritage gems like Richmond Station, and I have no doubt that this historic building and its fascinating history will be protected for generations to come.

"The restored station will have a significant impact on the local community by attracting visitors, bringing the area's history to life and acting as a catalyst for further regeneration.

"We were extremely impressed by the determination of the charitable trust and its loyal supporters, and wish them every success in taking the project forward."

Volunteers are now working hard to hit their own target of £250,000.

Jim Jack, chairman of the trust, said: "As of last Thursday we had £115,000.

"We are now considering using a short-term, low interest bridging loan that has been offered to us.

"If we decided on this route, we would need a big push to raise the remaining £135,000 over the next two years before the building is finished.

"I believe this is achievable."

To date, more than 2,000 people have joined the RBPT.

As well as raising funds for the project, volunteers have been asked for their memories of the station.

These written and filmed accounts will feature in the station's new heritage centre.

Memorabilia from the original station will also be included in the exhibition.

The trust hopes the redeveloped station will open in summer 2007.