Northern Gets Noticed in National Awards Final

Northern, the UK’s largest rail operator outside London, has been confirmed as a finalist in three separate categories in this year’s National Transport Awards.

Middlesbrough conductor Graham Palmer, who regularly recites his own poetry to his customers across the North East, has been named a finalist in the Frontline Employee of the Year category, up against other worthy customer service representatives from across the UK transport industry.

Northern’s innovative new RetailWall, in place at Harrogate and Leeds stations, is shortlisted in the ‘Excellence in Technology’ category. With its innovative digital platform, the RetailWall is the first of its kind in the UK and Northern, alongside its supplier Parkeon, is hoping to take home this coveted award.

The third award for which Northern has been recognised is the Rail Operator of the Year category, which, in making the final selection, has shown the judges appreciate the efforts the company has made to provide more services, faster journeys and improve customer service.

Alex Hynes, Managing Director for Northern, comments: “The National Transport Awards are one of the industry’s most respected award programmes and to be highlighted as finalists in three categories is fantastic news. This is further recognition of the improvements we have made and the progress we are making to create a better railway for the north of England. We will be keeping our fingers crossed that our hard work will be rewarded at the ceremony in October!”