01/03/2006

South West Trains, the UK’s biggest commuter rail franchise operated by Stagecoach Group, has been named Rail Business of the Year.

The company beat off stiff competition from other industry operators to take the honour at the HSBC Rail Business Awards.

It is the latest recognition of the high-quality operation run by South West Trains, which only a few months ago was named Passenger Operator of the Year.

South West Trains has made a host of improvements in the last 10 years to improve the passenger experience, with improving performance figures, better communication with passengers and a commitment to safety and security of staff and passengers.

At last night’s awards ceremony, held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London, South West Trains also won the Rail Marketing Campaign of the Year award for the communication of its new timetable.

In December 2004, the timetable was completely overhauled, with the biggest changes in 40 years. The judges were impressed with how the marketing campaign ensured that the changes were introduced smoothly.

Welcoming the Rail Business of the Year award, Stewart Palmer, South West Trains’ Managing Director, said: “This award was made possible by the efforts of all 5,500 people who work for South West Trains.

“It is further recognition by our peers of how far we have come and I am very proud of all our employees. It is now important that we keep up the good work.”

ENDS

For more information, please contact the South West Trains press office on 020 7620 5229.

Notes to Editors

In September 2005, South West Trains won four major awards at the National Rail Awards, including the prestigious Passenger Operator of the Year.