THE world's longest railway station bench has been repainted as part of a community scheme for young offenders.

The bench, at Scarborough Station, is 139 metres long and was given a smart new look thanks to a joint project between the North Yorkshire Youth Offending Team and train company Arriva Trains Northern.

The unusual bench was sanded and painted by a group of 14 to 16-year-olds, under the supervision of the Youth Offending Team.

Arriva Trains Northern (ATN), which manages the station at Scarborough, has its headquarters in York.

Peter Myers, head of stations for ATN, said: "We suggested the painting of the bench at Scarborough Station as a worthwhile project.

"As the longest railway station bench in the world, it is an interesting landmark which they have helped to maintain for the local community and visitors to the town."

Updated: 11:03 Friday, April 25, 2003