Improved facilities and more frequent train service recognised with medium-sized station of the year award

AXMINSTER’S historic railway station has been named one of the finest in the country.

It beat off tough competition to take the title of best medium-sized station of the year at the 2012 National Rail Awards.

The station has recently benefitted from significant improvements, including improved access through the installation of new automatic doors, a new accessible toilet and full refurbishment of the existing toilets.

In addition, in December 2009, a new timetable was launched following significant infrastructure investment, allowing the introduction of an hourly service from Axminster to London Waterloo and Exeter.

Glen Hatherley, station manager for South West Trains, said the award was great recognition for the team.

He added: “We’re pleased to be recognised for the recent improvements at the station.

“As a key focal point for the local community in Axminster, we are determined to keep building on this success and we’ll be making sure our award is displayed in pride of place at the station.”

Hilary Kirkcaldie, Clerk to Axminster Town Council said: “Axminster Town Council is delighted to hear of this success and would like to congratulate all concerned for this deserved recognition of the excellent service provided by the staff at Axminster station. The hourly service and station-upgrade introduced three years ago are greatly appreciated by local people.”

The National Rail Awards are now in their 13th year and are designed to recognise excellence and achievement in Britain’s rail industry. The criteria for the awards specifies that the winning station of the year should excel in providing a smooth, efficient and pleasant departure and arrival point for the travelling customer. The winner is selected following a secret visit to each of the shortlisted stations.

* Axminster was one of several Tudor-inspired railway stations designed by the LSWR’s architect Sir William Tite and completed in 1860. It is considered the finest example of those which survive.