Northern community groups lead the way at national awards

Groups from Lancashire, Derbyshire, Tyne and Wear, North Yorkshire, Cheshire and Cumbria were singled out for praise at last weeks Community Rail Awards – an annual event celebrating the work of volunteers around the country.

Picking up awards at this year’s virtual ceremony were:

• Tyne Valley Community Rail Partnership – Lyric and Line – Involving Diverse Groups Award
• Community Rail Lancashire – Horizons – Community Art Schemes Award
• Friends of Hummanby Railway Station – Attracting Passengers to Hummanby’s New Hourly Train Service – Small Projects Award
• Community Rail Lancashire – Women in STEM – Best Community Engagement Project
• Community Rail Cumbria, Millom Discovery Centre and Flimby Primary School – Better Side of the Tracks – Influencing Positive Change and Sustainable Development Award
• Kath Warbrick, Friends of Aspatria Station – Outstanding Volunteer Contribution
• Friends of Buxton Station – It’s Your Station Award (Platinum)
• Friends of Rose Hill Station – It’s Your Station (Gold)
• Community Rail Education Network (hosted by Community Rail Lancashire) – Outstanding Contribution to Community Rail

Carolyn Watson, Director of Stakeholder and Community Engagement at Northern, said: “Once again the generous spirit of the north of England has been highlighted by the fantastic work of our community groups; and rightly recognised in the prestigious national awards.

“Northern is extremely fortunate to work in partnership with so many community groups who give their time to enhance the rail environment for our customers and all local people.

“This year has been particularly challenging for all, and it is testament to the dedication of our community groups that they have all risen to the challenge and excelled once again.

“All at Northern look forward to building on our relationship with our communities throughout 2021 to deliver further improvements and to continue to make a positive impact for the north.”

Full details of the winners – and placed entries – can be found via the Community Rail Awards website.