Matlock Train Station steams ahead in industry awards

The station beat off stiff competition to scoop the coveted Best Small Station title in the East Midlands Trains annual Best Stations Awards.

The station, which has been visited by Her Majesty the Queen on more than one occasion, was praised for its floral displays, which have been created by volunteers as part of the partnership working of East Midlands Trains, Peak Rail and Friends of Matlock Station.

Andy Moore, head of stations for East Midlands Trains, said: “Our stations team play a major role in delivering the punctual, reliable and safe railway that our customers have come to expect from East Midlands Trains.

“However, they also take huge pride in delivering excellent customer service that we know makes a real difference to the 66,000 customers who travel with us every day.

“We’re continuing to invest millions of pounds to make major structural improvements to our stations, with better toilets, waiting facilities and accessibility enhancements, but we also know what a difference our people make as the first point of contact for many of our customers.

“We have some fantastic stations across our network and I’d like to congratulate all of this year’s winners on their well deserved achievements.”

Matlock mayor David Barker, who is a member of the Friends of Matlock Station, said: “We’re pleased with the award. We’re happy to keep the station tidy and colourful. The award is a recognition of our efforts.”

He explained that members of the friends group are known as ‘adopters’ of the station and make sure it is litter–free and kept to a high standard, as well as looking after the floral arrangements.

Councillor Barker added: “it’s improved over the last year or so. We have put a lot more floral tubs in.”

He explained that the group also liaised with the Derwent Valley Line Rail Partnership to ensure better rail service to the area.

David Beer, of Passenger Focus, said: “Passengers tell us that excellent front line service is crucial and lays the foundation for building passenger trust.

“Having the opportunity to celebrate the high standards achieved by staff and community volunteers is very important. The best station awards are helping to drive improvements to punctuality, information during delays and station environments.

“We hope that saying ‘thank you’ on behalf of passengers and rewarding best practice in this way will provide even more encouragement to improve passengers’ experience across the rail network.”