Our thanks to the ACoRP team led by Hazel for a splendid evening at Derby and to all the hard work of organising the event. We must thank too Northern for generous hospitality - in particular Carolyn Watson, Lindsay Marshall and Vicky Cropper. Vicky was an excellent host on our table. Penny and Nei shared the table with our good Friends from Buxton, Dave and Sue and from Walkden, Andy and Neil. Buxton also gained a gold certificate and a second placing for their inspired recycled metal statue of Joe who now resides on their platform. Joe has been created from the remains of the former diesel depot at Buxton. Well worth a visit! Thanks too to County and Borough Councillors Jean and George Wharmby for their enthusiastic support and for taking photos of the occasion. George is Chair of the High Peak and Hope Valley Community Rail Partnership and he was joined by rail officer Andrew Walker. Andrew always gives us staunch support!
The big overall winners were Hindley and Community Rail projects in Cumbria. Hindley's gardens are thoroughly deserving of acclaim and Sheila Davidson, Secretary of Friends of Hindley station, was named as the Outstanding Volunteer. Our congratulations to Sheila and her team at Hindley!