The region’s main passenger rail operator has been shortlisted for one of the industry’s top awards.

Greater Anglia could become Rail Operator of the Year award at the National Transport Awards.

Among the achievements over the last 18 months which have led to the nomination include:

n The best punctuality figures ever seen for this franchise area.

n Impressive service delivery during Olympics and Paralympics.

n Improved ticket purchase and wider information provision.

n A successful alliance with Network Rail which has led to better performance and far fewer weekends affected by engineering work.

n A major customer service programme and Blackberries provided for all customer-facing employees to help improve customer information.

n Upgrades to trains, stations and integrated transport facilities.

The winning and commended entries will be announced at a special ceremony in October.

Greater Anglia managing director Ruud Haket said: “I’m pleased to see the commitment and achievements of our employees in raising service standards over the last year-and-a-half recognised, with this short-listing for the Rail Operator of the Year award.

“We know we have much more to do and we are committed to consistently improving train services for the customers and communities we serve.

“However this independent endorsement illustrates the progress we have already made in a short space of time, as we focus on the maintaining the positive momentum for our passengers and stakeholders across the region.”