Mark Leary, 54, of Mill Road, Heathfield was once the 'man from the Pru' but now sells railway tickets at Buxted Station instead of collecting premiums.

The enthusiastic gardener has revolutionised the look of the station. He is given £50 a year to buy plants and puts them into baskets and containers.

He told the Express: 'The parish council approached me and said they would be happy to put in another £50.

'Now I have £100 to spent and have introduced two half-barrels of plants onto the platform.'

Mark is also the station librarian and regular commuters bring in their books to sell so he can raise money for International Animal Rescue.
While they are waiting for trains, passengers can also enjoy a giant jigsaw which sits on a table in the middle of the ticket office.

Mark's Alsatian Labrador cross rescue dog Louie sits quietly by Mark's side by special permission of Buxted's station manager.

He doesn't like to be alone so happily trots into work with his master where he keeps a strict eye on comings and goings.

Mark said: 'I've always been interested in the railway and saw ads for ticket office jobs in Eastbourne and Lewes.

'But when I popped into Buxted with my application form the lady here said she was leaving.

'I asked the railway to earmark me for her job and here I am.'
Pictured, Mark with faithful railway friend Louie.