The Heritage Railway Association (HRA) is looking for nominations for its 2022 annual awards.
Award winners will be revealed at Heritage rail's biggest awards event to be held at the Burlington Hotel in Birmingham on Saturday, 19 March 2022, subject to any coronavirus-related restrictions. The awards recognise successes in restoration and preservation and shine a spotlight on achievements from all parts of the sector.
There are ten categories with opportunities for all heritage railways and organisations, big or small. Award categories include:
- the prestigious Morgan Award for Preservation covering outstanding achievement in the restoration of carriages and rolling stock;
- Coiley Locomotive Engineering Award;
- HRA Award for diesel locomotion;
- Lord Faulkner Young Volunteer Award;
- HRA Award for communications;
- HRA Award for Environmental Innovation;
- Most Innovative Fundraising Idea;
- HRA Award for Small Groups;
- HRA Award for Large Groups;
- HRA Award for an Outstanding Visitor Attraction.
The 2021 event saw record levels of interest and this year's awards are expected to attract an equally strong field.
Previous winners have included the high-profile restoration of 1867-built Welsh Pony on the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway, the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, and the Class 50 Alliance.
Heritage Railway Association Chief Executive, Steve Oates, said: “Heritage rail has so much to be proud of, but we're often not so good at celebrating that. That's why these awards exist, to give us all a chance to shout about what makes the sector great.
“Whether it's a young volunteer that's helped transform your railway, or a huge restoration project that's brought a rusty hulk back to life, there's a category relevant to everyone. It doesn't matter if your line is big or small, steam, diesel, electric or a funicular, these awards are here to shine a spotlight on the rich railway heritage we all love.
“I know that the last 12-months have been challenging again, with Covid-19 still a constant thorn in our side. But that also means that there's never been a better time to give the volunteers and staff who have helped to get us through it the recognition they deserve.”
All Heritage Railway Association members can submit nominations for the awards.
Full details of all categories, together with a nomination form, is available here. The deadline for submissions is 18.00 on Monday 17 January 2022.
