Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company Community Rail Partnership shortlisted for prestigious national award

Local community group, Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company Community Rail Partnership, has been shortlisted for five Community Rail Awards, the national accolade that celebrates the inspiring work of community rail partnerships and station volunteer groups across Britain.

The Community Rail Partnership (CRP) are building upon their success at last year’s awards when they were presented with the photo award for capturing the essence of community rail with their their trolley staff’s Calendar Girls image.

Now the world famous Settle Carlisle Railway’s CRP are shortlisted for:
• Influencing positive change and sustainability with their trolley service,
• Empowering Diverse Groups through their Try the Train project,
• Silver Level award for It’s Your Station for the Crafty Ladies flowerpot display and station adopters gardens,
• Most Effective Communications Campaign for the Things to do on the Settle Carlisle line this weekend, and
• Janet Benzie for the Outstanding Volunteer Contribution.

The Community Rail Awards, now in its 21st year, celebrate the remarkable contributions of local groups and volunteers who transform stations into welcoming, inclusive spaces and connect communities with rail travel. Their efforts play a crucial role in promoting sustainable transport, reducing isolation, and ensuring communities have a voice in shaping their railways.

This year’s winners will be revealed at a prestigious ceremony in Derby on Thursday, 19 March 2026, bringing together leaders from across the rail industry and community sectors.

Organised by Community Rail Network and headline partnered by East Midlands Railway, the Awards showcase a wide range of initiatives that foster social inclusion, encourage greener travel, empower communities, and support local economies. The event highlights how community rail builds connections and creates positive change, benefiting communities and often transforming lives.

Chair of Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company CRP, Pete Myers said: “We’re thrilled to be recognised for our work in five of the 13 categories. Being shortlisted for five awards is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and partners who work tirelessly to make a positive difference in our community.”

Jools Townsend, chief executive of Community Rail Network, said: “2025 is a very special year for community rail and the wider railway industry, and we’re delighted to see so many inspiring award entries showcasing amazing people, projects and initiatives from across our growing, grassroots movement.

“Huge congratulations to Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company CRP for being shortlisted. We’re looking forward to joining them and our community rail colleagues and industry partners to celebrate their hard work, positivity, and dedication at our Awards evening in March.”

For more information about the Settle Carlisle Railway, visit www.settle-carlisle.co.uk

CAPTION Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company team receiving their award at last year’s Community Rail Awards in Newcastle.