To support England ahead of their World Cup semi-final with Argentina this evening, Wednesday, 15th July, Northern has renamed the railway station at Holmes Chapel in Cheshire “It’s Coming Holmes Chapel”.

In a speedy move, Northern has arranged for new signs to adorn the station and for station staff to get into the spirit before what promises to be a nerve-shredding evening.

Northern’s renaming of the station is an effort to spread a bit of positivity and get customers in the mood before they settle down to watch the big match. Northern is also encouraging fans, where possible, to ditch the car and travel by train to pubs, fan zones, and back home after the match.

The station’s name of Holmes Chapel, will be reinstated after the World Cup final, or after the semi-final if England lose, whichever comes first.

In a further celebration of the World Cup, all this week, West Midlands Railway is offering free train travel on the Stourbridge shuttle to any passenger named Jude, in recognition of Jude Bellingham growing up in the area.

Last year, artwork featuring Harry Styles and the Hermitage Bridge was unveiled at Holmes Chapel railway station.

“It’s coming Holmes Chapel! With England taking on Argentina in the semi-final, we wanted to give our customers something to smile about on the way to wherever they’re watching the game. On a more serious note, we’re encouraging as many fans as possible to leave the car at home and travel by train, whether that’s heading into town for the atmosphere or just getting home safely after full time. We’ll have trains running late into the evening to help everyone get home once the football’s finished, but remember to check your last train times in case it goes to extra time or penalties.”

Alex Hornby, Commercial and Customer Director, Northern