The year would prove to be a significant one of the station itself, as at tbe beginning of March that year the fledgling Friends Of... group was formed by seasonal station master Grant Taylor with modest initial volunteering being focussed on keeping the site smart, painting of the traditional picket fencing and provision of some period features.  The group would later be formalised with a full constitution and committee under the auspices of former Chief Minister, Tony Brown O.B.E., who was an instrumental figure in achieving this status some six years later.  The early works by the group included floral displays and repainting of many features around the site, encouraged by the incoming transport director who, throughout his tenure, was most encouraging and supportive of the volunteer efforts.  The season closed in late October and the station fell silent until the following March, no festive services utilising the station until a few years later.  Below the first Hop-Tu-Naa Ghost Train and a double-header during the first transport festival.