Severnside Community Rail Partnership (CRP) founder and chair Keith Walton has been awarded an MBE for services to urban rail transport in Bristol.

Keith has acted as chair since Severnside CRP’s inception in 2004. The partnership works to promote sustainable and healthy travel in the Bristol area, boost social and economic development, and give the local community a voice in improving stations and facilities.

The partnership’s activities – which span community art projects, tourism and leisure promotions, and interactive educational workshops and train trips – has contributed to the continued growth of rail travel in the area. In 2004-05, total passenger footfall on Severn Beach line stations was around 502,000, increasing to 1,839,000 in 2022-23.

Before his involvement with Severnside CRP, Keith was a civil servant with the Department for Transport and has served as a manager in a variety of transport operations and policy roles.    

Keith said: “I am extremely pleased to be awarded this honour. It came as a complete surprise!”

The Honours system recognises individuals who have made outstanding achievements in public life and have committed themselves to serving and helping the UK.

Keep up to date with future news, projects, and events from Severnside CRP via their website.