16.10.15
UKRIA sees record-breaking number of entries ahead of ‘extraordinary’ event
Judges from the UK Rail Industry Awards (UKRIA) 2016 have been overwhelmed with this year’s record-breaking amount of submissions ahead of what is shaping up to be its most spectacular edition yet.
They received over 300 entries from more than 130 individual organisations bidding to scoop an award across the 28 wide-ranging categories.
The independent judging panel – made up of experts from leading rail organisations including Network Rail, the ORR, regional transport bodies and train operators – is now analysing the entries and will announce the shortlist soon.
UKRIA director Roy Rowlands said: “Our judges received an absolutely record-breaking response from rail professionals this year, which both builds on last year’s success and confirms how the industry is still bursting at the seams with ground-breaking projects.
“It is not only one of the most exclusive opportunities to meet those responsible for running, maintaining and improving the nation’s railways but also an important celebration of the distinguished innovations taking place in the sector at present.
“From the hundreds of entries to the near-thousand confirmed guests, the event promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.”
The event will mark the UKRIA’s third and most successful year so far, during which candidates, rail professionals and other sector leaders will attend the black tie ceremony in London’s Battersea Evolution on 11 February for an exclusive night of networking and celebrations.
Along with opportunities to meet professionals from across the board, the event will also be steered by a keynote speech from Phil Hufton, Network Rail’s managing director of network operations.
The awards were created to identify and highlight excellence and innovation across the industry and its supply chain – from outstanding projects to operator of the year.
And candidates for subcontractor of the year will also have the chance to win an exclusive editorial feature worth £5,000. This new category will help celebrate the vital partnership work of the thousands of micro to medium-sized firms across the sector.
At the event’s champagne reception last year, Mike Pollard, head of collaborative working at Network Rail, said: “Events like this are very important – it’s an opportunity for people to get together and network.
“It brings the industry much closer together. It’s a fantastic time to be a part of the rail industry, with lots of opportunities in lots of sectors.”
To find out more about UKRIA and book a place in the event, please visit its website.