Community Rail Awards 2026

Our prestigious Awards recognise the people doing wonderful work on behalf of their communities and railways.

We’re delighted to be working with our headline partner East Midlands Railway to bring the Awards Gala Event to the fabulous Derby Arena on Thursday 19 March 2026! 

View the shortlist for the 2026 Awards here.

Event Running Order

• • 17:00 – Welcome drinks reception – this includes the opportunity to visit EMR’s ‘Aurora Lounge’
  • 18:00 – Awards ceremony and dinner – formal presentations are expected to finish by 21:30.
  • 23:30 – Carriages

Dress code is cocktail wear (not black tie).

The ceremony and dinner will be followed by Entertainment – hit the dance floor to the fabulous sounds of local (and vinyl only!) DJ Lip Gloss Boss, and participate in some of the fun activities on offer.

Important updates

Please note the attendance bursary fund has been over-subscribed and is now closed to applications.

Bookings for the gala ceremony are now closed.

If you have any queries about any element of the Awards, please contact events@communityrail.org.uk.

Fringe Activities

Wednesday 18 to Friday 20 March – our headline partner East Midlands Railway and local CRPs will provide a programme of supporting fringe events & activities surrounding the Awards gala event. They will be showcasing community Rail and tourist attractions in the East Midlands. You may want to book a few days in the region!

See what’s on offer and how to book your place HERE