Volunteers could step in to provide a tourist information service for Huddersfield.

The search is on for town “ambassadors” who could help provide information about Huddersfield, the town and its rail services.

First TransPennine Express and Kirklees Council want to develop a VIP – a volunteer-run Visitor Information Point – at the station.

It’s an idea being backed by Clr Paul Salveson, who has helped to bring a team together involving First TransPennine Express, Kirklees Council and members of local voluntary groups, including the Penistone Line Partnership and Huddersfield Civic Society.

As Huddersfield looks forward to an influx of visitors in the next year, with a range of sporting and cultural events culminating in the Tour de France, the facility will be a valuable addition to the town’s tourism officer.

Clr Salveson said: “It would be lovely to provide a fully staffed tourist information centre with paid employees, but as the council faces even more cuts it just isn’t realistic.

“But by capturing the knowledge and enthusiasm that people have for our town and its grand station will be a good alternative.

“And I’ll put my money where my mouth is and do a few hours a week.”

The group are looking at using the large desk area adjacent to the ticket office windows in the rail station foyer to create the visitor information point.

It would provide a combination of information about the town as well as general information about rail services.

Clr Salveson added: “This will be an additional service to that provided by FTPE staff at the station as well as that offered by Kirklees’ own library and information staff.

“We are looking to recruit a team of enthusiastic volunteers who would form a Friends of Huddersfield Station.”

A meeting is being held at the station on Thursday August 1 at 2.30pm to outline how the scheme could work and to gauge interest.

“We’re looking for people with a bit of time to spare who are passionate and knowledgeable about Huddersfield and surroundings and have a basic understanding of the rail network – with a pleasant and welcoming manner,” said Clr Salveson.

“And what better day to launch the initiative than on Yorkshire Day,” said the Lancashire-born councillor.