Media centre

Monday 6 Sep 2004

NETWORK RAIL’S MEDIA TEAM ARRIVES IN TOP SPOT

Region & Route:

National

Transport journalists throughout the UK have nominated the media relations team at Network Rail winners of the “Outstanding Press Office” award at the National Rail Awards 2004. MORI carries out an email survey of transport correspondents, and this year teamed up with Rail Magazine to recognise the top press office in the rail industry. Introducing the surprise award Nigel Harris, Managing Editor of Rail Magazine, said: "Rail industry press officers are a vital source of knowledge, feeding the media with the major news events of the day, and communicating the key policy changes that affect all of us.  Their influence is far-reaching, but the teams require great skill and outstanding patience, especially at times of service disruption. “The Network Rail team has demonstrated that even in a company where the press coverage is not always positive, it is possible to build good relations with the media." Victoria Pender, Network Rail’s Director of Government & Corporate Affairs said: “Receiving this award from our customers in the media is the best possible recognition for all the media team’s hard work and commitment.  Our team delivers a fast and efficient service with patience and good humour throughout the year, always remaining focussed on building the reputation of Network Rail.  It’s excellent to have our efforts recognised by both the rail and communications industries.” MORI, Britain's best-known independent market research company, undertakes an annual survey of transport journalists, providing an independent and systematic review of key opinions on companies within the rail sector, and the industry as a whole.  This year MORI and Rail Magazine joined forces to make a special new award for the most impressive press office and communications team, as nominated by this year's sample of 30 journalists who have almost daily contact with rail industry media relations teams. The award was presented at the National Rail Awards ceremony to: Victoria Pender, Network Rail’s Director of Government & Corporate Affairs; Chris Rumfitt, Network Rail’s Head of External Communications; and Kevin Groves, Network Rail’s National Media Relations Manager. The National Rail Awards ceremony was held on Thursday 2 September at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.