Kent Community Rail Partnership is celebrating national recognition after volunteer Dominic Noades won “Outstanding Volunteer Contribution” at the 21^st Community Rail Awards.

The event, organised by Community Rail Network and supported by headline partner East Midlands Railway, took place in Derby on Thursday 19 March. A record-breaking 610 guests attended, including volunteers, community leaders and rail industry figures from across England, Scotland and Wales.

Judges reviewed more than 300 entries showcasing the extraordinary work taking place across Britain to connect communities with their railways.

Dominic won for his lasting impact on Kent CRP’s outreach and engagement, inspiring rail users and demonstrating the powerful difference that passionate young volunteers can make.

Xavier Brice, CEO of Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (host organisation for Kent CRP) said: “Huge congratulations to volunteer extraordinaire Dominic Noades and Kent Community Rail Partnership for deserved recognition as outstanding volunteer contribution of the year at the Community Rail Awards 2026.”

And congratulations to all winners, nominees and community rail partnerships for putting people and community at the heart of rail travel.”

Across Britain, the community rail movement continues to grow. There are now 76 community rail partnerships and around 1,300 volunteer station groups working with train operators, councils and local organisations to make rail travel more accessible, sustainable and connected to local communities.

Community Rail Network chief executive Jools Townsend, said: “Our awards celebrate the volunteers, community groups and local partnerships helping transform Britain’s railway stations into welcoming gateways to their communities.

“From supporting young people to travel independently, to creating greener stations and vibrant community spaces, these projects show how powerful local action can be.

“As the railway celebrates its 200th anniversary, community rail is helping ensure the network’s future is just as much about people and places as it is about trains and tracks. Our congratulations to Dominic and to all our winners, and thanks to everyone who supports and champions community rail, helping the movement to go from strength to strength.”

Full details of all winners can be found here.